$5.$ Welding

a$.)$ A welded blank is proposed for an automotive component. For this component, $2$ pieces of steel plate $5$ mm thick are to be arc$-$welded in an automated production process. The total length of the weld for each assembly is $275$ mm $.$ The weld bead is to be the full thickness of the part and is $4$ mm wide. The specific energy of the material is $\backslash (14\backslash$mathrm$\{$~J$\}/\backslash$mathrm$\{$mm$\}^\{3\}\backslash ),$ and the efficiency of the process is $\backslash (85\backslash \%\backslash ).$ How much electrical energy is required per part?

E:

b$.)$ If the process uses a constant voltage power supply with $\backslash (\backslash$mathrm$\{$V$\}=20\backslash )$ Volts, and a current of $110$ amperes, how much time is required for each weld?

c$.)$ The required production rate for this part is $2000/$week$.$ i ne wem stanon wnere me part is produced has a load$/$unload time of $20$ seconds per part, and the station is in operation for $7$ hours$/$day and $5$ days$/$week$.$ How many welding stations are necessary?

Number of stations $=$

d$.)$ An alternative welder power supply is $\backslash (15\backslash \%\backslash )$ less expensive, but is on$$y capadie or putung out $75$ amperes at $20$ V $.$ If this power supply is selected, how many welding stations will be required?

Number of stations $=$

e$.)$ If the lower cost power supply is used, will the cost per part for this operation be higher or lower? Assume the useful life of the power supply is $2$ years.