European Developments in Resistance Welding

The United States has played and still plays the leading role in the development of the resistance welding technique. Spot welding of both structural steel in heavy construction and light alloys are mentioned in the early thirties. The first mercury-rectifier controlled resistance welding machine was shown in Europe about the same time. Control techniques have developed along the same lines as in the United States. Some unusual techniques of non-destructive testing, presently being developed in Europe, are outlined. Details of a flash-butt welding machine, said to be the world´s biggest, are given. The cooperation of welding societies and research bodies within Europe and the European contribution to the International Institute of Welding are explained.