A87-001

ISO 18278-1:2004 recommends procedures for determining the generic weldability for resistance spot, seam and projection welding of metallic materials. This procedure is applicable for the assessment of the weldability of uncoated/coated steels, stainless steels and non-ferrous alloys such as aluminium, titanium, magnesium and nickel and their alloys of single thickness lower than or equal to 5 mm. The weldability of metallic materials in resistance welding is defined in terms of: the ability to make the weld in the first place;the ability to continue making welds;the ability of the weld to withstand the imposed service stresses. The procedures recommended in ISO 18278-1:2004 can be used to: compare the weldability of different metallic materials;compare the welding response of particular welding equipment and allow comparisons between different equipment and determine the influence of the static/dynamic properties of different welding equipment;determine the weldability of a material when any welding configuration is changed e.g. electrode material and/or shape, water cooling requirements etc.;investigate the effect of welding parameters such as welding current, weld time, electrode force or complex welding schedules including pulse welding, current stepping etc. on weldability.

ISO 18278-2:2004 specifies a laboratory test procedure for the determination of the acceptable welding current range and the assessment of electrode life using a multi-spot test with specific conditions. ISO 18278-2:2004 is applicable for the assessment of the weldability of uncoated and coated sheet steels of thicknesses up to 3 mm. The test procedure specified in this International Standard and the results obtained, apply only for the introduction of a new type or batch of material.