Automatic seam tracking in pipeline welding with narrow groove

Automatic welding has been used frequently on pipeline projects. Productivity and reliability are the most essential features of automatic welding system.While the mechanized GMAW process is the most widely used welding process, the carriage and band system is the most effective welding system for pipeline laying. This application-oriented paper introduces a new piece of automatic welding equipment used in the dual tandem welding process for pipeline construction. It is based on cutting-edge design and practical welding physics to maximize productivity. This paper also describes the control system that was designed and implemented for automatic welding equipment. The system has the self diagnostic function which facilitates maintenance and repairs, and also has the network function via which the welding task data can be transmitted and the welding process data can be monitored. The arc sensor was also developed for a narrow welding groove in order to achieve higher accuracy of seam tracking and fully automatic operation.