Drop by Drop (1984)

The technology of joining metal components has been central to the great engineering and construction developments of this century.

This film looks at a new development which brings arc welding into the computer age. Called the CDT (Controlled Drop Transfer) Pulsed Arc Welder, the machine offers much greater efficiency and ease of handling than conventional systems. By using a high-speed camera, we are able to see how the CDT transfers molten metal directly to the work piece in single, “precise pulses”, eliminating most of the dangerous “spatter” which has long been a hazard to welding operators.

The new system can be programmed for different metals and conditions. The hull of Australia II was welded with a prototype CDT machine.