SMS group has continuously developed the MIG/MAG welding process used in tube production. However, conventional power sources have reached the limits of what they are able to do. The welds at the beginning and end of the sheet metal plate were particularly problematic. The innovative PERFECT arc^® welding technique that uses a fully digital power source is opening up completely new prospects for welded tube plant operators.

The centerpiece of PERFECT arc^® is the digital power source with its trendsetting, processor-based control system in real time – PERFECT control. This allows the dynamic and static properties of the power source to be adapted to the requirements of the welding process within microseconds. The result is a perfect welding arc every time for every welding condition.

Compared to conventional welding processes, PERFECT arc^® is 50 % faster in tack-welding and 20 % faster in submerged-arc welding. This can directly result in a more than 20 % increase in welded pipe production.