AWS PRGP

Abstract

<strong>INTRODUCTION</strong> <br>This Practical Reference Guide describes the basic operation of weldment positioners and welding head manipulators and gives information on their selection and use. Weldment positioners hold and move a workpiece into the desired positions for welding and other related operations. Welding head manipulators hold and move the welding head and welding torch as the weld is made. Positioners and welding head manipulators can be used individually and in combination with each other or with other equipment for manual, semi-automatic, mechanized, automated, or robotic welding operations. Weldment positioners and welding head manipulators are particularly useful to reduce operator fatigue, increase welding speed, and reduce production time for long weld joints, circumferential joints, and thick joints that require multiple weld passes. They can help improve productivity, reduce costs, and improve weld quality. <br><strong>CAUTION: THIS DOCUMENT INCLUDES GUIDELINES FOR THE OPERATION, SELECTION AND USE OF WELDMENT POSITIONERS AND WELDING HEAD MANIPULATORS. CALCULATIONS OF LOADS AND FORCES ON EQUIPMENT AND DESIGN OF MOUNTING METHODS FOR EQUIPMENT, TOOLING, AND WORKPIECES ALWAYS SHOULD BE DONE BY A QUALIFIED ENGINEER OR BY THE MANUFACTURER OF THE EQUIPMENT.</strong>