The Role of Heat Treatment Power Consoles in Welding

In metal fabrication and construction, welding is a pivotal process that ensures the robustness and durability of metal structures. It's more than just joining metals; it's about ensuring the joint can withstand stress and last long. This is where the role of heat treatment becomes indispensable. Heat treatment power consoles are paramount among the various tools used for this purpose.

What is a Heat Treatment Power Console?

Like those in the provided image, heat treatment power consoles are devices designed to control heat application to metals during post-weld heat treatment (PWHT). They come with a range of switches, dials, and connectors that allow operators to set specific temperatures, monitor heat levels, and control the duration of the treatment.

Why is Heat Treatment Necessary?

After welding, metals often undergo structural changes at their molecular level. These changes can lead to internal stresses, reduced ductility, and increased brittleness. Heat treatment, therefore, becomes essential to:

• Relieve internal stresses.
• Improve mechanical properties like tensile strength and ductility.
• Reduce the risk of corrosion.
• Enhance the overall lifespan of the weld.

The Significance of Power Consoles

1. Precision Control: With a power console, operators can precisely control the temperature to which the metal is exposed, ensuring that the metal undergoes optimal heat treatment, neither too much nor too little.
2. Uniform Heating: These consoles provide consistent and uniform heating across the welded area, which is crucial as uneven heating can lead to new stresses or distortions.
3. Safety: High-quality consoles come with safety features like overheat protection and alarms, ensuring the safety of the equipment and the operator.
4. Documentation & Monitoring: Modern power consoles may offer features like data logging, allowing operators to monitor the heat treatment process closely and maintain records for quality assurance.

Impact on Metal Fabrication & Construction

In industries like metal fabrication and construction, where the integrity of welds is critical, heat treatment power consoles play a defining role.

• They ensure that large structures like bridges, skyscrapers, and pipelines remain durable and safe.
• In the automotive and aerospace industries, where the precision of welds is crucial, these consoles guarantee that parts can withstand intense pressures and stresses.

Conclusion

Welding, though a fundamental process, comes with its set of challenges. The post-weld molecular changes in metals can compromise the quality of the weld. However, these challenges are effectively addressed with tools like heat treatment power consoles. By ensuring the robustness of welds, these consoles contribute significantly to the longevity and safety of metal structures in various industries. The next time you witness a magnificent metal structure, remember the unsung hero behind it - the heat treatment power console.

Hotfoil-EHS
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Thermocouple Attachment Units in Heat Treatment

Thermocouples play a crucial role in the heat treatment industry, particularly welding. A thermocouple is a type of sensor consisting of two different types of metal joined together at one end. When the joined end is heated or cooled, it creates a micro voltage correlated to the temperature.

The Thermocouple Attachment Unit (TAU) is a crucial device used to construct and apply these thermocouples to the workpieces or target pieces that will be welded.

Construction of Thermocouples:

1. Preparation of Thermocouple Wire: The first step in constructing a thermocouple involves preparing the thermocouple wire. These wires are two different types of metal, with their choice depending on the temperature range and the environmental conditions of the process.
2. Joining the Wires: The two thermocouple wires connect at one end by twisting the two wires together and then applying heat, generally through a method such as welding or brazing.

Application of Thermocouples to Welding Target Pieces:

1. Location Selection: The thermocouples need to be attached strategically to effectively monitor the temperature of the workpiece during the welding process. These locations are generally where the thermal properties are most critical for the quality of the weld, such as the weld joint or near heat-affected zones.
2. Attachment: The TAU is then used to attach the thermocouple to the selected location on the workpiece. The attachment is typically done by welding the bead of the thermocouple to the workpiece. The TAU can often control this process to ensure a good connection without damaging the thermocouple.
3. Connection to Measurement Device: After attachment, the other end of the thermocouple is connected to a temperature measurement device or system. This device measures the thermocouple's voltage and translates it into a temperature reading.

During the welding process, the thermocouple provides real-time temperature data, helping to control the weld's heating and cooling rates, ensuring the weld reaches the appropriate temperatures without overheating or cooling too quickly, both of which can lead to weld defects. After the process, thermocouples can be removed or left in place, depending on the requirements.

Remember, the specific process can vary based on the type of TAU and the particular requirements of the welding operation. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions when using a TAU.

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Welding Pre and Post Heat Treatment Power Consoles

Power consoles, also known as control consoles or heat treatment controllers, play a critical role in the heat treatment process by controlling and monitoring the temperature and other parameters of the heating equipment. They typically include a temperature controller, over-temperature protection, and a programmable controller to ensure that the heat treatment process meets the specified parameters, such as temperature and time. They also provide data logging and communication capabilities for process monitoring and control.

Heat treatment power consoles provide control over multiple zones. The number of zones a power console can control can vary depending on the design and capabilities of the specific power console. Some heat treatment power consoles may be able to manage one zone, while others may handle multiple zones. It is common to have four temperature zones under control for industrial heat treatment, but power consoles may even control up to 24 zones. These zones are typically used to control different workpiece sections and can be used to create specific temperature profiles for other parts of the process.

Power consoles in heat treatment typically control various heating systems, such as electric resistance, gas-fired, or induction heating. Electric resistance heating systems use electric heating elements, such as resistance wire, to heat the workpiece. Gas-fired heating systems use a combustion process to generate heat in the furnace. Induction heating systems use an electromagnetic field to generate heat within the target. The power console controls the current flow to the induction coils to develop the electromagnetic field and maintain the desired temperature within the target. In some cases, power consoles also contain cooling systems and atmosphere generators to achieve specific temperature profiles and atmospheres during heat treatment.

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Aftek EHS Transformers for Heat Treatment, Welding Machines and Power Consoles

Aftek EHS, a business group under Hotfoil-EHS, designs and manufactures electrical transformers used in heat treating, welding machines, power consoles, and other industrial applications. Aftek transformers regulate amperage and voltage and convert the AC source to a suitable current for welding and heating. Aftek also manufactures step-up transformers that convert 208, 3 phase to 480 volt 3 phase for machine operation in facilities without access to 480-volt power. All products are proudly manufactured in the USA.

For more information about Aftek transformers, contact Hotfoil-EHS. Call them at +1 609-588-0900 or visit their website at https://hotfoilehs.com/transformers.

Pre and Post Weld Heat Treatment

Heat treatment in any large-scale welding process (such as pipeline welding, shipbuilding, boiler manufacturing) is critical to a weld's efficiency and, therefore, essential in a structure's performance, and therefore its importance can never be overlooked. 

An examination of industrial code or a consultation with a welding specialist is imperative if in doubt. A review of the welding code is the first determinant of whether preheating is required. The welding code carefully defines the minimum preheat, the temperature, the soak time, and the welding method. Many requirements, all obtained from years of rigorously checked data, are recognized by welding codes. This data is well supported by several sources, including metallurgical research, chemical material properties, and radiographic analysis. 

Welding heat treatment in its simplest form is the process of heating the base metal (parts to being welded) before welding to the desired temperature and then allowing it to cool at a given rate under regulated conditions. The exact temperature the component needs to achieve (before welding) is called the "preheat temperature." 

There are several main reasons why preheating before welding is necessary. A preheated part cools more slowly, which slows down the welded part's overall cooling rate. This slow cooling strengthens the metallurgy (crystalline structure), which makes it less susceptible to cracking. Hydrogen that could be present immediately after a weld is therefore released more effectively, reducing cracking risk. Preheating at the weld joint and surrounding metal often mitigates stress from the shrinkage. It is preheating that decreases the risk of fractures due to brittleness during processing. 

Electric preheaters for welding, known as "ceramic mat heaters," are durable and versatile heating components built to fit evenly around the weld and surrounding area. Ceramic mat heaters are temperature controlled by a power console that uses thermocouples and electronic controllers to regulate the preheat temperature profile, track it, and record the temperature data. 

Another less favored method for heating the target piece is with a torch or open flame, but this method has apparent safety issues and controllability problems. Also used are heat treat furnaces, but these usually involve off-site transport of the target item. 

For safety, portability, and controllability, induction heaters give an appealing alternative. Induction heating is endorsed because, instead of open flames or external electrical components, it uses molecular excitation as its source of heat. Induction heating operates very rapidly, and there are far fewer worries about component contamination since there is no interaction with the target item. When very high temperatures and uniform control is required, many industrial processes use induction heating.

It is critically important to review and discuss your heat treating requirements with an expert before welding. Don't risk safety or waste time and money by "winging it" when it comes to heat treatment.

Hotfoil-EHS
609-588-0900
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Hotfoil-EHS for All Your Pre and Post Weld Heat Treating Needs

New Hotfoil-EHS Product Catalogs

There are 2 updated Hotfoil-EHS catalogs available for download now.

A revised and updated Hotfoil product catalog can be downloaded here. It includes information about Type HB Hopper Heating Modules,Type FRP Heating Panels, Type ELP Heating Panels,Type GA Heating Blankets, Type HSR / HSRX Silicone Rubber Heaters, Type PCW and SRC Heating Cable, Type MI Metal Sheathed Heating Cable, Tank Heating Controls, Hopper and Chute Heater Controls, and Heat Control Systems for Hazardous Areas.

A revised and updated EHS product catalog can be downloaded here. It includes information about Power Consoles, Fusion 45 Induction Console, Ice Star Heat Treatment Control System, Ceramic Mat Heaters, Rope Heaters, 4-Banks and Accessories, Temperature Recorders, Pinwelders & Thermocouple Attachment Units and Accessories, Brinell Tester & Poldi Hardness Testers, Triple Cable Sets, Splitters, Insulation and Accessories, T/C Wire, Banding, Twistlocks and Accessories, EHS Gas Trains, Furnace Fabrication & Capabilities, and Custom Generator Trucks / Mobile Heat Treatment.

For more information, contact Hotfoil-EHS by calling 609-588-0900 or visiting their web site at https://hotfoilehs.com.

The IceStar 6 or 12 Point Welding Heat Treatment Controller

The IceStar ISQ is a panel-mounted controller, which can easily be connected to thyristor and contactor driven power sources. It has 6 or 12 controlling measurement points, and up to 36 monitoring measurement points. If more measurement points are needed, it's possible to connect up to 14 controllers to same heating process with cables or via wireless. All units can be controlled from a single PC. The IceStar ISQ has several communication capabilities with PC: WiFi/internet, Bluetooth radio, Zigbee radio, ISM modem, USB, Serial ports (RS232, RS485).

All process profiles are made with ISPort software. After the process is started the profile and the

process will be saved to PC's and also to controller's memory. This enables the controllers independent working if there is no connection between unit and PC. ISQ includes process display so it's easy to control and monitor processes directly from ISQ. There are also LEDs for TC/ process status and alarms.

For more information about the Icestar ISQ contact Hotfoil-EHS by calling 609-588-0900 or by visiting https://hotfoilehs.com.

Ice Star Heat Treatment Controllers

The most innovative and versatile heat treatment control system available today. Ice Star designs, engineers and manufactures heat treatment controllers for electric and gas furnaces, as well as for induction and resistive heating consoles.

Hotfoil-EHS is the exclusive distributor for Ice Star in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

https://hotfoilehs.com/icestar
609-588-0900

Mobile Generator and Power Console Trailers by Hotfoil-EHS

Hofoil-EHS manufactures mobile generator trailers for welding heat treating power and temperature control. Custom designed from large to small, Hotfoil-EHS will build to your specification.

https://hotfoilehs.com 

609-588-0900

Hotfoil-EHS Heat Treating Power Consoles

Precise control over your pre-weld and post-weld heat treatment parameters are critical. Accurate temperature control, specific soak times, uniformity, and controlled heat up and cool down times are required to ensure strong welds. Hotfoil-EHS power consoles are designed to provide the best control, easiest user interface, and longest lasting operation, even in the toughest environments. Using only the highest quality components, Hotfoil-EHS power consoles are field-tested and application proven. Control systems can be specified with or without recorders or ramping controllers, and are standardly available in 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 zone configurations.

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609-588-0900

Industrial Heat Treatment Furnaces, Big and Small

Here at Hotfoil-EHS, we are capable of building furnaces of many sizes, big and small. From small, low-throughput furnaces, to much larger high yield furnaces, to rail-driven furnaces designed to move back and forth over the materials being heated, Hotfoil-EHS Design Engineers and Fabrication Shop has done it all. Gas or electric, Hotfoil-EHS has the experience to build a custom furnace to your exact specification.  If you can think it, we can build it!

Hotfoil-EHS
https://hotfoilehs.com
609-588-0900

New Hotfoil-EHS UK Ltd. Product Brochure

Hotfoil-EHS UK has just released a new general product capability brochure. You can download the PDF here.

Hotfoil-EHS UK Brochure from Hotfoil EHS, Inc.

Gas Trains and Combustion Systems by Hotfoil-EHS

Hotfoil-EHS manufactures complete gas trains and combustion systems complete with:

• Dual ASCO valves for start-up (6 to 10 million BTU systems only)
• Air light and air switch
• Low-gas and high-gas switch
• Gas light
• Ignition transformer and ignition light
• Burner on light
• Dual main gas valves
• Strobe light and horns as well as the mute buttons
• Proof of Closure Switch
• UV Sensor
• UV Meter
• Re-set button
• Veriflame control module
• Relays mounted inside a Nema 4 control box
• Ramping controller for timing the ramp

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Hotfoil-EHS Heat Treatment Equipment

EHS engineers, designs, and manufactures proven heat treatment systems to effectively complete any project more efficiently than competitive systems, while staying within any budget. Years of application experience and successful installations have produced thousands of happy customers. A focus on customer service second to none.

Hotfoil-EHS Expanding to United Kingdom with New Engineering and Manufacturing Center

Hamilton, N.J., June 8, 2018 - Hotfoil-EHS, Inc., America's premier manufacturer of industrial heating equipment, announced today the opening of their United Kingdom facility in Birmingham, England.

"The opening of our UK facility signals a homecoming of sorts, since our original company, Hotfoil, was founded in the mid-1960's in England,” said Hotfoil-EHS President, Matt Richards. “The Birmingham location makes perfect sense for Hotfoil-EHS. After several ownership changes, my father, Neville Richards, took ownership in 1993." Richards continued, "Since then, we have grown though key acquisition and new product development. This move also is the first step in our aggressive strategy to expand into the international market.”

The new Hotfoil-EHS facility in Birmingham will provide the UK with a large local inventory of power consoles, recorders, ceramic heaters, and a full line of accessories used for heat treatment. Hotfoil-EHS UK will also supply hopper heaters, tank heaters, vessel heaters as well as control systems.

According to UK General Manager David Robbins, “The opportunity to introduce such a high quality product line to the UK is wonderfully exciting. I am delighted to be working with such a well established US company and progressive management team."

About Hotfoil-EHS
Manufacturer of America's premier heat treatment and industrial heating equipment, Hotfoil- EHS is driven by providing the highest quality products, delivering the best customer service, and keeping costs low. Their headquarters and main manufacturing facility is located in Hamilton, NJ and have two additional manufacturing operations in Laporte, TX and Chattanooga, TN.

For more information contact Dean Prassas by emailing dap@hotfolehs.com or by visiting:

https://hotfoilehs.com
https://hotfoilehs.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/hotfoilehs

Hotfoil-EHS Manufacturing and Distribution Facilities

Hotfoil-EHS, Inc. is an organization with over 70 employees and an impressive engineering capability. Through continued re-investment of profits, Hotfoil-EHS acquired additional large fabrication facilities and today is a full-service engineering, design, and manufacturing company of industrial heating equipment. Their Hamilton, NJ headquarters provides 68,000-square-feet of manufacturing space, with other manufacturing and distribution facilities located in Chattanooga, TN, LaPorte, TX, and Birmingham, England.

https://hotfoilehs.com

609-588-0900

The Importance of Post-weld Heat Treatment for Welding Repairs

Welding is the process of melting two metals together. During the welding process, the metal is exposed to very high temperatures and undergoes a phase change, first from solid to liquid, then back to solid as it cools.

During welding, residual stresses are formed in an area referred to as "the heat affected zone" or HAZ. In the HAZ, differential contractions occur as the metal heats, liquifies and then cools to ambient.

Residual stresses have a significant impact on the performance of a weld and their reduction is highly desirable. The undesirable impact of residual stresses in welded metal structures involve fatigue performance and corrosion resistance.

Heat treatment furnace.

PWHT with resistance heaters

Welding repairs are increasingly a structural integrity concern for aging  equipment such as pressure vessels, piping systems and other large steel systems. The make up of residual stresses near repair welds can be drastically different from those residual stresses of the original weld.  Post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) is used to reduce residual stress in steel and and should be used for welding repairs ( as well as on new welds).

PWHT is proven very effective in reduction of high residual stress around the weld repair. Conventional PWHT can be done by combustion furnace, induction heaters or electric resistance heaters (ceramic pad heaters). Accurate ramp and soak times, as well as data recording can be done with modern power console systems. It is strongly recommended to apply PWHT for all original and repair welds.

Custom Heat Treatment Furnaces Designed for the Most Challenging Applications

Hotfoil-EHS is a New Jersey based company who will design and fabricate custom heat treatment furnaces. From small, low-throughput furnaces, to high yield furnaces, to rail-driven furnaces designed to move back and forth over the materials being heated, Hotfoil-EHS has done it all.

From decades of experience in furnace production, many important furnace engineering discoveries were made that save time, money, and improve the end product.

Contact Hotfoil-EHS for your next heat treatment furnace requirement.

https://hotfoilehs.com
609-588-0900

American Made Heat Treatment Equipment: Everything You Need from One Reliable and Knowledgeable Source

Hotfoil-EHS manufactures pre and post-weld heat treating equipment including: power consoles; ceramic mat heaters; thermocouple attachment units (TAUs); pin welders; Brinell testers; Poldi hardness testers; thermocouple wire; insulation; and accessories.

EHS engineers, designs, and manufactures proven systems to effectively complete any project more efficiently than competitive systems, while staying competitive within any budget. Years of application experience and successful installation history have produced thousands of happy customers.  Quality and durability at an affordable price, and a focus on customer service second to none.