Apparatus and method for connecting metal workpieces

A welding tape for thermally connecting metal workpieces by fusion, wherein the welding tape in a cross section has an outwardly closing cover layer which comprises an inner cover layer and an outer cover layer, wherein in the transverse direction provision is made at least in side edge regions of the inner cover layer for adhesive layers by means of which the welding tape can be fastened to the workpieces to be connected, wherein in the interior of the cover layer provision is made for a self-combusting exothermic substance, which during ignition provides the thermal energy which is required for the welding, wherein a non-combustible heat shield is arranged exclusively between the exothermic substance and the outer cover layer, and wherein a welding additive is provided between the exothermic substance and the inner cover layer.