Orbital Welding Parameters

Calculate GTAW orbital welding settings for tube and pipe applications.

Adjust current for gravitational effects around circumference

Orbital Level Programming

Level Position Current Adj
112 o'clock (Flat)100%
23 o'clock (Vertical Down)90-95%
36 o'clock (Overhead)85-90%
49 o'clock (Vertical Up)95-100%

Understanding Orbital Welding

Travel Speed Formula

Travel Speed (mm/min) = Circumference / Arc Time. Typical orbital welding speeds range from 75-200 mm/min depending on material and wall thickness.

Amperage per Wall Thickness

  • Rule of Thumb: 1 amp per 0.001" (0.025mm) wall thickness for stainless steel
  • 1.65mm wall (0.065"): Approximately 60-70A peak
  • 2.77mm wall (0.109"): Approximately 100-120A peak
  • 3.05mm wall (0.120"): Approximately 110-130A peak

Critical Parameters

  • Electrode: 2% ceriated tungsten, typically 1.6mm or 2.4mm
  • Arc Gap: 0.5-1.0mm for thin wall, 1.0-1.5mm for heavier wall
  • Shield Gas: High-purity Argon (99.995% min) for reactive materials
  • Purge: 5-10 tube volumes before welding, maintain O2 < 50ppm