Critical Value Elements of Orbital Welding	Time: 12:15 PM	Room C
Luis Yepez, Manager – Welding Services, Inc. Manual welding techniques are responsible for the majority of fixed joining techniques used to build an extraordinary variety of parts, components, structures and systems. The criticality of these joints becomes even more important as component reliability becomes a performance measure. A widening array of new alloys, a declining pool of welding talent and increasing pressure to reduce cost all complicate the formula for achieving benchmark results. Orbital and machine welding systems offer a number of advantages over manual techniques. But despite the availability of off-the-shelf equipment, there is a reluctance to employ these systems and to attempt to achieve the promised benefits. Many reports of inconsistent results are used to avoid the field application of machine technology. This presentation will highlight the specific advantages, supported by quantitative data that orbital joint welding will also be described so that there is no illusion about the basis for success in applying machine technology.