Torch extraction 2021: “the increasing demand for extraction torches is clearly noticeable”
Extraction torches are the welding technology trend in 2021. Demand is growing – because, as they become more widespread, extraction systems that can be easily adjusted to the power requirements of the respective extraction torch are increasing in importance. KEMPER expert Manfred Könning explains in an interview what is currently happening on the market after the market launch of the VacuFil series.
Last year, KEMPER launched the VacuFil series – a new system with a digital torch database. What has happened since then?
The whole topic has received a completely new level of attention in welding technology. The increasing demand for extraction torches is clearly noticeable. As a result, demand for our extraction unit is also increasing noticeably – also internationally. Shortly after the market launch, we received several large orders from international machine manufacturers.
And apart from that?
In the meantime, there is also a lot of interest in the know-how we have acquired in this field. For example, together with some torch manufacturers, in Germany we have developed the DVS leaflet 1208 that has just been published. It explains the technical aspects of torch extraction in an easy-to-understand manner. This leaflet will be regularly adapted as knowledge progresses. And here, of course, our company’s experience is in demand.
Where do you think the growing interest in torch extraction comes from?
Basically, the obvious thing to do is to extract the welding fumes as close as possible to the point of origin. For a long time, however, the torches with extraction nozzles used for this were very heavy, not very flexible and, therefore, unpopular with welders. A few years ago, the issue gained momentum when a manufacturer completely redesigned an extraction torch. Since then, other manufacturers have followed suit, so that a lot has changed in terms of handling. While the extraction must not be too vigorous to avoid destroying the protective gas jacket, it must be vigorous enough to capture as much of the resulting welding fumes as possible. This balancing act requires optimum adaptation of the extraction capacity to the extraction torch that is used. For this purpose, the VacuFil series devices have a stored database that contains the decisive data for many extraction torches and is constantly updated and expanded.
Has the highest level of development already been reached?
No, the issue of extraction torches is more of an ongoing topic. That’s why we measure every new torch on the market at our premises to determine the right setting. We are often asked about this by torch manufacturers who would like to have their torches listed in our extraction units. Besides that, scientific research in this field is still ongoing. For example, the Institute for Welding and Joining Technology at RWTH Aachen University is currently conducting a research project to investigate the possibilities of electronically monitoring the welding point and continuously adjusting the extraction capacity to the optimum level. Of course, we actively support and accompany such projects. Also, our VacuFil range is not yet complete. We are continuously developing the product range for extraction torches in order to make the entire product range available to the market, from entry-level to high-end units. The year 2021 will certainly provide some innovations in this respect.
Learn more about the story behind torch extraction today!
Shortly we present…
…why extraction torches are booming right now,
…what the industry is looking at in terms of regulations…
…and what development work KEMPER is doing with the VacuFil series.
