Heat welding equipment
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This stops dirt, moisture and other substances from getting into the joins.
The job specifications will generally set out the specific requirements for the welds, particularly in projects where hygiene is important, such as in hospitals and aged care facilities.
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Note that some people say 'welding rod' instead of 'welding cable'. Both of these terms mean the same thing.
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Welding equipment
Most installers use hand-held tools to heat weld a seam.
However, on large projects installers sometimes use powered machines.
Below are the typical tools used in heat welding.
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The depth and width of the groove may vary, depending on the type of flooring product being welded.
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The gun is fitted with the correct tip to match the welding cable diameter and type of flooring being welded.
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Once the welded material cools it is trimmed a second time, flush with the floor surface, using the spatula only.
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There are various types of electric-powered machines available.
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Again, there are various types and sizes available to suit different applications and job sizes.
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Welding gun maintenance
When it's looked after properly, a welding gun should last for many years.
The way it works is quite simple - air is sucked in at the back, heated by a heating element, and blown out through the tip.
However, if dust is allowed to build up in the air intake gauze, it can be drawn into the electric motor and cause it to overheat.
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The heating element is also very sensitive.
You need to let it cool down before you switch off the internal fan so it doesn't burn out.
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Note that you should never pull apart the electrical side of a welder or tamper with the wiring. Always leave those sorts of repairs to an electrician.
Learning activity
Audio 12 (mp3 |6|KB)We'll look in detail at the process of manually grooving and heat welding a seam in the next lesson. But for now, let's have a look at some of the power tools on the market designed to do these tasks.
Follow the links below to see the video clips produced by two manufacturers. Watch the videos and then answer the questions.
What blade sizes are available for the Turbo groover?
Which blade size is factory fitted?
2. Welding floor with Leister Unifloor
There is a range of nozzles available for different types of floors. What types of floors are the following three nozzles used for?
Standard
Pressed
Air knife.
