ACT

AC welding systems are generally composed of three elements; the welding transformer, the welding control and the mechanical system.

The welding transformers are used in AC machines to change alternating current from the power line into a low-voltage, high amperage current in the secondary circuit. A combination of primary taps on the welding transformer or SCR phase control adjustment of the primary voltage is commonly used to provide an adjustment of the welding current, as well as adjustment of secondary voltage. Transformer ratings for AC machines is expressed in kVA for a specified duty cycle. This duty cycle rating is a thermal rating, and indicates the amount of energy that the transformer can deliver for a stated percentage of a specific time period, usually one minute, without exceeding its temperature rating. The RMS Short Circuit Secondary Current specification indicates the maximum current that can be obtained from the transformer. Since heating is a function of the welding current, this parameter gives an indication of the thickness of the materials that can be welded.