Resonant transition switching welding power supply

By means of parallel connected passive networks, charged only modestly by energy for commutation, resonant transition switching is ensured for this modified full-bridge topology used in a welding power supply. A new driving scheme adapts the resulting power circuitry for both the droplet and the short-circuiting transfer welding modes occurring in the gas metal arc welding process. Less voluminous and cheaper magnetic components together with lower conduction losses of transistors and diodes yield a cost-effective, lightweight power supply for 12 kW/350 A. The analysis of the circuit, the design and the verification results are presented.