There are two basic options in stud welding, capacitor discharge or CD welding as well as drawn arc. The CD welding process uses smaller weld studs, and these capacitor discharge studs are typically less than 3/8ths of an inch, and this depends on the length, which is typically not more than two inches for stock sizes.
The Use of the Weld Studs
The use of capacitor discharge studs is found both in contact and gap welding. Both use the process of welding through the power from a capacitor storage system rather than an AC or DC power supply as with drawn arc stud welding.
With both contact and gap welding, the right welding studs allow an extremely fast weld, often taking just fractions of a second to complete. This makes it an ideal option for thin workpieces, and it can be used on metal sheet that is as thin as 0.02 inches.
The almost instant vaporization of the thin ignition tip only allows a very thin surface layer of the base piece to melt and form the continuous bond under the weld stud. The result is a solid, secure fastener with absolutely no dimpling, marring or discoloration on the other side.
Uses of CD Stud Welding
Available in stainless steel, mild steel and aluminum in standard inventory, these capacitor discharge studs are used in the manufacturing of cookware, jewelry, appliances, HVAC system components and in most types of electronics.
Special custom orders of different alloys and metals in CD weld studs include copper and brass as well as other materials as required for specific types of applications. Only a handful of companies are able to custom produce these types of stud welds, but they allow for faster fabrication and manufacturing, particularly when one surface has to be kept free from any signs of the weld.
