Abstract: A method for welding includes (1) assembling a workpiece comprising a first member and a second member; (2) positioning a first electrode proximate the first member and a second electrode proximate the second member, the first electrode being moveable relative to the second electrode; (3) positioning a shunt member between the first and the second electrode; (4) clamping the workpiece between the first and the second electrode; and (5) during the clamping, passing a welding current between the first and the second electrode, wherein, while the welding current is passing between the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode moves relative to the second electrode from at least a first position, wherein a gap is defined between the shunt member and the second electrode, to a second position, wherein the gap is closed and at least a portion of the welding current passes through the shunt member.

Abstract: A welding assembly including a current generator, a first electrode electrically coupled to the current generator, the first electrode including a first engagement surface, a second electrode electrically coupled to the current generator, the second electrode including a second engagement surface, a width-determining fixture positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode to define a welding volume having a width, and an electrically nonconductive material positioned to electrically insulate at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode from an electrical conductor outside the width.