Lankasyöttölaitteet

Lankasyöttölaitteet, known in English as wire feeders, are devices used to deliver welding wire from a spool to a welding torch. They are essential components of MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and MAG (Metal Active Gas) welding processes, also known as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). The primary function of a wire feeder is to provide a consistent and controlled rate of wire feed, which is crucial for maintaining a stable welding arc and achieving high-quality welds.

Wire feeders typically consist of a motor, drive rollers, and a guide tube. The motor powers the drive rollers, which grip and push the welding wire. The speed of the motor is adjustable, allowing the welder to control the wire feed speed (WFS) according to the welding parameters and the type of material being welded. The drive rollers can be designed to accommodate different wire diameters and types, with various knurling patterns available to ensure proper grip without damaging the wire. A guide tube, often made of Teflon or other low-friction material, channels the wire from the rollers to the welding torch, minimizing friction and ensuring smooth delivery.

Modern wire feeders can be integrated into the welding machine itself or be separate units connected by a control cable and a wire conduit. Features often include gas shielding control, voltage control, and the ability to reverse the wire feed direction for maintenance. The reliability and accuracy of a wire feeder directly impact welding performance, affecting factors like penetration, bead appearance, and overall efficiency. Different types of wire feeders exist, including push feeders, pull feeders, and push-pull feeders, each suited for specific welding applications and wire types.