Numerical modelling of weld pool convection in gas metal arc welding / Marc H. Davis.

Abstract

An investigation into the development of numerical models of the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) process. Models that solve the full equations of motion within the pool are very computationally expensive and their accuracy is limited by the available turbulence and free surface models. An approximate heat-conduction only model has therefore been developed which uses enhanced thermal conductivity to simulate convection within the pool. This model requires several orders of magnitude less computational resources than full cnvection solutions and much less empirical tuning than the modified conduction solutions. As such it appears to be a valuable method for accurate practical prediction of new weld thermal behaviour.