
SME Focus Episode 250: Jake Hand – Rapid Fusion / Evo 3D
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ESAB, a global leader in fabrication technology, has introduced its latest product, the OK Autrod 42 LSW—a copper-coated ER70S-9 solid wire specifically designed for robotic MIG welding applications. This new welding wire aims to enhance productivity while reducing overall costs in industries such as automotive and yellow goods manufacturing.
The OK Autrod 42 LSW is engineered to create minimal slag and silica islands on the weld bead, which in turn reduces the need for time-consuming post-weld cleaning. This feature is especially beneficial for industries where the welds are followed by painting or galvanizing processes, as it ensures a smoother and more efficient finish. ESAB’s innovative metallurgy has made it so that the slag produced by the wire is easier to clean compared to traditional welding wires. The self-releasing slag, primarily composed of manganese and titanium oxides, significantly eases clean-up compared to the silicon oxides found in conventional wires.
Available in diameters of 0.9, 1.0, and 1.2 mm (0.035, 0.040, and 0.045 inches), the wire is offered in standard spool weights of 18 kg (39 lbs.) or ESAB’s Marathon Pac™ bulk wire system, which comes in a more cost-effective 250 kg (551 lbs.) option. This adaptability allows businesses to scale their operations according to their production needs while benefiting from a reliable, high-quality welding solution.
The OK Autrod 42 LSW is especially well-suited for single-pass welding applications, such as those found in the automotive and yellow goods industries, where robust corrosion and paint protection are applied after welding. In these industries, manual removal of silicon islands and slag is necessary to prevent rust formation. However, with the introduction of the OK Autrod 42 LSW, this need for additional cleaning is drastically reduced, offering companies both labor savings and faster cycle times.
One of the standout features of this new wire is its good wetting action, which results in a smoother transition at the weld toe, contributing to a better bead profile and superior surface finish. Additionally, the wire generates minimal spatter, a crucial factor when working in high-speed, robotic environments. The tensile strength of the OK Autrod 42 LSW is a minimum of 71 KSI, with typical impact values of 93 ft-lbs at -22°F, ensuring strong, reliable welds in challenging conditions.
Joe Cacioppo, Director of Global Product Management at ESAB, emphasized that the demand for low-slag wires, like the OK Autrod 42 LSW, is growing in industries where reducing labor costs and cycle time is a priority. By minimizing post-weld cleaning, manufacturers can achieve greater efficiency and maintain high-quality welds.
ESAB’s Marathon Pac bulk wire system is also a significant addition to this new product, as it allows for extended production runs, reducing the need for frequent spool changes and improving overall workflow efficiency.
With over 120 years of innovation, ESAB continues to lead in providing cutting-edge welding and fabrication technology. Their extensive range of products and solutions serves industries worldwide, ensuring high-quality manufacturing outcomes. For more information about ESAB’s welding products, visit their website or contact a local ESAB representative.
In summary, the OK Autrod 42 LSW offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for robotic welding applications by reducing slag formation, simplifying cleaning processes, and improving weld quality. This product aligns with the growing need for automation and fast-paced manufacturing environments, especially in the automotive sector.
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