Numerical simulation and experimental investigation of temperature distribution in the circumferentially butt GTAW of Incoloy 800H pipes

The multi-pass circumferential butt GTAW process of Incoloy 800H pipes was modelled with the FEM in 3D. The element birth and death technique was used for the addition of filler material. Goldak model was used to simulate the distribution of arc heat source. The validation of the simulation model was carried out based on the precise temperature measurements within the HAZ of the welds by thermocouples as well as metallographic characterisation of the cross section of the welds. A good agreement was found between the simulation and experimental results for both thermal field and weld zone shape. The present model showed that increasing the heat input resulted in a wider weld zone as well as a higher HAZ peak temperature. These effects were related to the net heat input and not to either welding current or welding speed, individually. The developed simulation model is a useful tool to investigate the welding thermal regime and the weld pool profile.