20.04.2026
International
Sponsored
When T-joints in port construction leave no room for error
Sponsored: Sheet pile structures in port construction are among the applications that place particularly high demands on skilled welders. High tensile forces, thick steel plates and confined spaces must be managed in accordance with strict specifications from supervisory authorities. T-joints on sheet piles, for example, leave little room for error: the weld must be fully penetrated and adhere to precisely defined dimensions. Interruptions and rework must be avoided.
In practice, this often means working with very little space between components. With heavy steel plates leaving barely any room for the torch, visibility of the weld pool is limited, and even the slightest tremor immediately affects the weld. Every ounce of skill is demanded of the welder and the torch technology used.
At the Dortmund-based company Anker Schroeder ASDO, which specializes in anchoring technology for hydraulic and civil engineering, such T-joints are part of everyday work. The components consist of 30 to 60 mm thick sheets positioned very close together. The goal is to weld the seam in a single pass – without lifting the torch. Standard torch geometries quickly reach their limits here.
Torch geometry as a decisive factor
For such applications, Anker Schroeder relies on liquid cooled MIG/MAG welding torches from the Abimig W T series by Abicor Binzel, featuring an extended torch neck. These provide additional clearance between the operator’s hand and the workpiece and allow the torch to be guided steadily between the T-fittings. This allows the weld to be completed evenly and without interruption.
The fact that Abimig W T welding torches can also be rotated continuously through 360 degrees and are easy to change makes them even more versatile. This allows the welder to flexibly adjust the torch angle to the specific welding position, which makes welding in challenging confined spaces particularly easier.
If the torch neck needs to be replaced, this can be done directly on site. Since the wire does not need to be removed from the cable assembly, the effort required is minimal, and the welding process can resume quickly. Nickel-plated surfaces on the torch neck and gas nozzle also reduce the adhesion of welding spatter. The Abimig W T 300 is ideal for use in very confined spaces and for welding in hard-to-reach areas. It features an extra-short torch head and is available in lengths of 146 mm, 205 mm, 250 mm, 350 mm, 500 mm and 650 mm.
Many years of expertise in heavy steel construction
Anker Schroeder has been manufacturing heavy-duty steel tie rods for more than 100 years. The company focuses on anchoring systems for ports, bridges, and civil engineering, with a specialization in forging. These sophisticated components form the basis for parts used worldwide under heavy loads.
More information about the Abimig W T welding torches
(Source: Abicor Binzel Schweisstechnik GmbH & Co. KG)
Schlagworte
MAGMIGOut-of-Position WeldingSteelSteel PlatesT-JointsWeldWeldingWelding SeamWelding Torch
