New tractor for submerged arc welding

Jon Lawson

Versotrac’s modularised components can be disassembled into smaller units, hand-carried into confined or remote spaces and then reassembled in minutes. No tools are required.

“This modular tractor system recognises the portability needs of ship, barge, offshore, wind tower and structural steel applications. Versotrac is a truly modular welding tractor, allowing users to take it anywhere without the need for cranes or other lifting devices,” said Magnus Svedlund, Global Product Manager SAW Equipment, ESAB.

The Versotrac can be rebuilt for optimum beam welding positions (including fillet welds in the flat position), comes in four- and three-wheel versions and can be adapted for both inverter-based AC/DC power sources and conventional DC and AC power sources. A new wire spool handling system detaches for easier transportation and more ergonomic loading of wire spools, while steering handles let operators easily change weld point position.

Quick-connect welding head

ESAB further enhanced the modular design of the Versotrac with its EWH 1000 welding head and EAC 10 controller, both of which detach. Their associated quick connectors and automatic detection/setup by the controller let users switch between the SAW, GMAW and Gouging processes in seconds.

The Versoarc EWH 1000 welding head incorporates a wire feed system that can weld with single wires up to 5mm and up to 1000A @ 100% duty cycle. For higher productivity (20+ kg/hr deposition), the Versoarc EWH 1000 can be used with twin wire process. A closed-loop encoder control system ensures precise wire feed speed control.        

It uses the entirely new and intuitive EAC 10 controller. Its simplified interface includes functions users need for tractor-based and other light-automation applications, making more room on the display for important functions like real-time, on-screen heat input to monitor and control weld quality. The EAC 10 pendant detaches from the base control unit so operators can work in a comfortable position and change settings from a distance. The controller works with all current ESAB submerged arc welding power sources, as well as most analog power sources on the market.

 

 

Recent Issues