For drawn arc or capacitor discharge stud welding, having the correct stud welds is important. This includes choosing the correct metal for the stud weld as well as selecting the right length, thread pitch, and body diameter.
Weld studs can be made out of many different types of metals. Most commonly they are found as mild steel or stainless steel weld studs for the drawn arc stud welding processes, and they are also found in these two types of steel as well as aluminum in the capacitor discharge (CD) stud weld processes. Specialized types of applications may also require stud welds in other metals such as copper, brass or even specialized types of alloys such as Inconel, Monel or HY80 or HY100.
Standard Sizes
In many types of jobs, standard sizes of stainless steel weld studs are an ideal match. These can be purchased from a stud weld supplier, with these companies able to provide large volume orders as they have high in-house inventory.
These are also the best option when ordering a combination of standard as well as custom-made weld studs. Look for companies based in the United States with the ability to work to your specifications and requirements for any custom stainless steel weld studs needed for the job.
Customizing Options
In addition to choosing the specific grade of stainless steel, which is dependent on the specifics of the application and if it must meet food grade or other material standards, customizing can include length, diameter, and thread.
The length has to be carefully considered, particularly with drawn arc stud welds. Keep in mind the installed length is slightly shorter than the length before the welding process.
The thread pitch is the number of threads per inch. These are designated in industry sizes, but there is also the possibility to manufacturer metric stainless steel weld studs, an essential consideration for products exported out of the USA.
