- Selection of weld head and source for different applications.
- Optimization of the welding cycle parameters (squeeze, welding and forge pressure, current, welding time, number of cycles) for different applications. Definition of operating windows.
The resistance welding technology is based on the formation of a welding spot or seam by the fusion and coalescence of two metallic surfaces. Contacting parts are joined by the heat obtained from resistance to eletric current and the application of pressure. Electric power sources are used to generate high intensity electrical currents (thousands of amperes) and electrodes through which that current flows.
Noteworthy advantages of this technology are high energy efficiency, low part deformation, remarkably high production rates, easy automation and absence of filler metal.
Most important resistance welding processes:
Ensure quality in spot resistance joints on high production rates (1 piece per second).
Develop a system for the real time acquisition and analysis of welding data and images. Data correlation with welding quality.
Collaboration with home appliances sector enterprise.
Resistance joint (projections) of high elastic limit steels up to 1.2 mm thickness.
Optimization of process parameters, determination of parameter window, and correlation of parameters with fracture modes in chisel testing.
Collaboration with automotive sector company.
Resistance joining of battery pack connectors.
Resistance joining of connectors to cylindrical and prismatic battery terminals. Parameter optimization and temperature analysis to ensure cell integrity.
Collaboration with energy and storage system sector company.
Flash welding of large steel structures – chain rings and links.
Process specifications, parameter optimization and analysis of machine performance and variables to ensure weld quality. Welding Non-destructive inspection.
Collaboration with wind energy and maritime sector industrial enterprise.
Challenges to be faced in the coming years:
PhD in Science by the University of Navarra. He has been a researcher in the Processes area since 2007. He is currently leader of research projects related to advanced joining technologies, and additive manufacturing of metal components. He is specialized in metallurgy and weldability, welding technologies (arc, laser, resistance, friction-stir, cracking), cladding, and additive manufacturing processes. He has led different European projects (2) and participated in others as researcher (7). At a national level, he has participated in more than 60 basic research, and applied research and innovation projects with companies. He has participated in numerous international conferences related to additive manufacturing and joining technologies (more than 30) and he is the author of 29 indexed scientific articles which have been referred 356 times.
He is a member of the Spanish AEN/CTN 14 Technical Standardization Committee.
He is a LORTEK delegate on the European platforms, AM Platform and Joining Platform. He has good communication skills in Basque and English (CAE certificate), full commitment and passion for research, continuous learning and business development.
He is teacher and coordinator International Welding Engineer course (IWE) and of the Master’s Degree in Industrial Additive Manufacturing (University of Mondragon).
In November 2018, he received recognition from the Basque Government as top researcher for his research work and scientific-technological merit.