Computers and simulation techniques have been applied to casting process over an extended period. Indications point to a similar modelling technique being usable to simulate welding processes. The identical phenomena of solidification, latent-heat effect and phase-change relations in these two processes suggest that the numerical algorithm that was developed to simulate the foundry casting process [4] can be used to model the welding process with very minimal modifications.
An accurate description of the temperature distribution that occurs in a component subjected to the welding process is essential to the predicting of distortion and residual stresses. Furthermore, a knowledge of the heating-and cooling-rates is useful in predicting metallurgical reactions and microstructure transformation in the weld pool and in the heat-affected zone (HAZ). This paper presents work in modelling the heat-transfer mechanism involved in the welding process. The modified software is applied to the simulation of the pulsed arc welding of thin plate in which the heat input is from the weld arc to the weld workpiece. Realistic thermal boundary conditions including convection, radiation, the latent-heat effect during phase change and other welding parameters, are all taken into consideration. The predicted temperature fields around the weld pool are compared with those determined experimentally.