Resumo:
This work presents an experimental study of the control factors influencing a gas
shielded FCAW process, electrode AWS E 71T-1 (rutile), in a short circuiting transfer mode.
The arc stability, geometric and economic characteristics were evaluated in a series of
experimental tests using a bead on plate (BOP) technique, flat position, in a mild steel ABNT
1020. As a control factors, the inductance level, voltage, wire feed rate, welding speed, the
contact tube to work distance and shielding gas type were used in different levels by the use
of an orthogonal L18 array. The results showed a very significant influence of the inductance
in lowering spatter formation despite the decrease in arc stability mainly by the unstable short
circuits presence. Also the voltage and shielding gas type had a significant influence in the
arc stability, and conditions to reach a better arc stability were established. On the other hand
the welding speed and the contact tube to work distance factors had shown no significant
influence in any response studied.
