Importance

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Abstract

A wire feeding apparatus for providing filler wire to a welding gun or torch that includes a motor, a driver roll, an idler roll and a bias controller. The bias controller is configured to bias the wire contacting portion of the idler roll towards the wire contacting portion of the driver roller. The bias controller is preferably moveable between at least a first preset condition and a second preset condition. In the first preset condition, the bias controller produces a first engagement force on the portion of the filler wire that is located between the wire contacting portions of the idler roll and the driver roll. In the second preset condition, the bias controller produces a second engagement force on the portion of the filler wire that is located between the wire contacting portions of the idler roll and the driver roll. Preferably, the first engagement force is greater than the second engagement force. More preferably, the bias controller is also moveable to a third preset condition, wherein the idler roll is distanced from the driver roll. In a modified arrangement, the bias controller can move only between the first preset condition and the third preset condition.

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First Claim