ISO 18278-1:2004

ISO 18278-1:2004 recommends procedures for determining the generic weldability for resistance spot, seam and projection welding of metallic materials.

This procedure is applicable for the assessment of the weldability of uncoated/coated steels, stainless steels and non-ferrous alloys such as aluminium, titanium, magnesium and nickel and their alloys of single thickness lower than or equal to 5 mm.

The weldability of metallic materials in resistance welding is defined in terms of:

• the ability to make the weld in the first place;
• the ability to continue making welds;
• the ability of the weld to withstand the imposed service stresses.

The procedures recommended in ISO 18278-1:2004 can be used to:

• compare the weldability of different metallic materials;
• compare the welding response of particular welding equipment and allow comparisons between different equipment and determine the influence of the static/dynamic properties of different welding equipment;
• determine the weldability of a material when any welding configuration is changed e.g. electrode material and/or shape, water cooling requirements etc.;
• investigate the effect of welding parameters such as welding current, weld time, electrode force or complex welding schedules including pulse welding, current stepping etc. on weldability.