New Current Measurement Device in Resistance Spot Welding by Using the Ring Deformation

링의 변형을 이용한 저항용접 전류측정장치의 개발

A new method was investigated to measure the high current in resistance welding processes. A measuring unit was developed by using a strain gage attached on the outer surface of a steel ring. The steel ring was placed around a section of the secondary loop of the welding machine, and was deformed by electro-magnetic forces induced by the high welding current. The circumferential constituent of the ring deformation was then used to obtain a signal voltage proportional to the secondary welding current. The strain gage signal of ring deformation is enough to determine the welding current in resistance spot welding, especially when welded with direct current.