Building workpieces by deposit welding.

摘要

Apparatus for building an axially symmetrical workpiece (12) of desired geometry by deposit welding uses a welding head (18) for depositing molten weld material (14) and a rotatable, reusable preform 10 which translates with the welding head (18). The preform (10) is provided with means (22) for varying its shape to minimise the weight of the preform (10). The preform (10) forms, supports and cools a puddle of the deposited molten weld material puddle while the weld material is solidifying, thereby eliminating the need for a conventional consumable preform.