Lankasyöttölaitteita

Lankasyöttölaitteita, known in English as wire feeders, are mechanical devices used to deliver welding wire to a welding gun. They are a critical component of many semi-automatic and automatic welding processes, particularly gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW). The primary function of a wire feeder is to provide a consistent and controlled supply of filler metal to the weld pool.

Wire feeders consist of several key parts. A motor drives a set of rollers that grip the welding wire and push it through a conduit towards the welding gun. The speed of these rollers, and thus the wire feed speed, is typically controlled by a voltage or amperage setting on the welding machine. Wire is usually supplied on spools or in larger drums, which are mounted on or near the wire feeder. The wire passes through a wire guide to ensure it enters the drive rolls correctly. Many wire feeders also incorporate a gas valve that is activated when the welding gun trigger is pulled, initiating the flow of shielding gas.

The design of wire feeders can vary depending on the application. Portable wire feeders are common for on-site work, while larger, more robust units are used in automated welding cells. Some wire feeders are designed for specific wire types or diameters, while others are more versatile. Proper maintenance, including keeping the drive rolls clean and ensuring the conduit is free of kinks, is essential for reliable operation. A malfunctioning wire feeder can lead to inconsistent weld quality, including poor bead appearance and incomplete fusion.