International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

The paper presents the research carried out for the development of brazing materials which, in a single pass, deposit two layers in the brazing joints: a buffer layer with high diffusion potential and increased silver content, and a filling layer with high strength and reduced silver content. The brazing performance of Ag20-type coated rods was improved by introducing a percentage of Ag40-type powder into the deoxidizing coating. The research was completed by establishing and patenting both the product formulation and the manufacturing process. The new product was successfully tested for producing brazed joints in copper pipes, copper-to-steel joints, and steel-to-tungsten carbide joints. The results of the mechanical tests met the required specifications, while the metallographic analysis of the joints showed an increase in diffusion of approximately 18.5% compared with the diffusion obtained using Ag20-type rods. The advantages of the brazing process using the new products consist of increased brazing productivity, improved quality of the brazed joints, and reduced environmental emissions from the resulting slag.

Welding is a complex process governed by a multitude of factors. Additive manufacturing and Industry 4.0 or 5.0 require the acquisition of specific knowledge related to closed-loop welding processes, supported by highly qualified personnel. The shortage of specialized personnel within the EU is being addressed through the launch of innovative research projects in support of multidisciplinary and multinational consortia. Through consensus, these consortia develop curricula, courses, and evaluation criteria. These materials are disseminated to those interested in specializing as trainers of specialists or process operators, through platforms that are easy to access and use for self-training and for obtaining certificates that confirm the knowledge acquired. These self-training methods are accompanied by the creation of regional centers of excellence and by the launch of innovative ideas for practical implementation, including the creation of start-ups based on the knowledge acquired.