First, let’s talk about the composition of impeders. They are typically made from a combination of materials, including silicon, aluminum, and magnesium. These elements are chosen for their ability to react with oxygen and other impurities in the steel, forming a protective layer that prevents inclusions from forming.
The main function of an impeder is to increase the impedance of the parasitic current path at the inner circumference of the tube, thus directing more of the available energy into the weld. Impeders also concentrate the magnetic flux generated by the current in the work coil so that a greater amount of energy is induced into the tube.
It is important to follow the welding equipment manufacturer’s recommendations regarding coil design, and in many cases the additional cost of purchasing coils from the manufacturer or another reliable source is more than offset by the reduction in power consumption that these coils can provide.
Welder frequency
In pipe welding, the term “high frequency” can mean anything from 80kHz to over 800kHz. Although frequency in this range has little direct effect on the width of the heat-affected zone and thus on the amount of metal heated, there are several indirect effects that relate to efficiency.
Impeders are more effective at higher frequencies, but their losses increase with frequency, so it can be difficult to keep them cool. The welders themselves also convert energy more efficiently at lower frequencies, and the lower coil voltages reduce the likelihood of flashovers.
Higher frequencies are better for producing small-diameter pipe, while lower frequencies are better for larger pipe. It is ideal if the frequency of the welder can be adjusted, and this type of equipment is now offered by several manufacturers.
Impeders in the steel pipe industry
Now, let’s discuss the function of impeders in the steelmaking process. As mentioned earlier, they are inserted into the ladle during the refining stage, which is when the steel is heated to a high temperature to remove impurities. The impeders are then added to the molten steel, where they react with the oxygen and other impurities to form a protective layer. This layer helps to prevent the formation of inclusions, which can weaken the steel and reduce its overall quality.
There are several benefits to using impeders in the steelmaking process. First and foremost, they help to improve the quality of the steel by preventing the formation of inclusions. This means that the steel will be stronger and more durable, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. In addition, using impeders can help to increase the productivity of the steelmaking process by reducing the amount of time and effort required to remove inclusions. This can ultimately lead to cost savings for the steel manufacturer.
In conclusion, impeders are an important consumable used in the steelmaking process. They are composed of silicon, aluminum, and magnesium, and function by forming a protective layer that inhibits the formation of inclusions. Using impeders can improve the quality of the steel and increase the productivity of the steelmaking process, leading to cost savings for manufacturers.
