Lincoln Electric has released the first VRTEX™ 360 software upgrade offered since the launch of the training system in late 2009.The upgrade package for this virtual reality weld training system, available now, is ideal for schools, unions and other training facilities to instruct and educate welding operators in several virtual environments, using stick, MIG or flux-cored arc welding processes. The upgrade package offers new enhancements and features including an expanded offering of welding consumables with the addition of AWS E6013 stick electrode. A THEORY function has been added to increase functionality; it explains and defines elements within the virtual environment for the welding student. The new upgrade also has a process piping manufacturing virtual welding environment, welding school and desert military base environments offered on VRTEX 360 systems. The AWS E6013 stick electrode has been added to correspond with the current AWS E6010 and AWS E7018 classifications allowing for training on a new family of electrodes commonly used for sheet metal applications up to 3/8in. Students can experience arc behavior, welding sounds, hand vibrations and weld results characteristic of that electrode type when using each electrode type. The E6013 electrode can be used on flat plate, T-joints and groove welds.
