Welding process with jerk compensation

摘要

An improved welding head for creating an in-track weld between a first rail segment and a second rail segment includes a controller having computer-readable instructions read by the controller. The computer-readable instructions include instructions for compensating for rail jerk during in-track welding. The welding head includes a closing force actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder, for moving the rail segments toward one another. A pressure transducer is monitored during welding to determine a closing force. An impending jerk of the rail movement is detected if an abnormal closing force change is observed, and in response the flow of hydraulic fluid into or out of the hydraulic cylinder is restricted to prevent or minimize the jerk. In addition, when an impending jerk is detected the weld current may be temporarily increased to burn or prevent the formation of short circuit paths between the rails.