definately right about the lack of consumables...... can see why...

definately right about the lack of consumables...... can see why they would want/need the machines to be an ongoing rev source...

http://www.k-tig.com/welding-process-comparison

How does K-TIG compare to Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)?

Submerged Arc Welding is a process which requires a continuously fed, consumable, solid or tubular (metal cored) electrode. The molten weld is protected from atmospheric contamination by being ‘submerged’ under a blanket of granular flux consisting typically of lime, silica, manganese oxide, calcium fluoride and other compounds. When molten, the flux becomes conductive and provides a current path between the electrode and the work piece. In suitable applications, SAW can achieve high deposition rates however root passes are generally not achievable.

By contrast, the K-TIG process has no consumables, requires no flux handling systems, creates no flux or slag residues, requires no inter-pass and post-weld slag removal and provides a high-quality root bead.