Simple thermo-elastic–plastic models for welding distortion simulation

This study presents a number of finite-element (FE) models aimed at illustrating the effect of using different modelling strategies for the simulation of the thermo-elasto-plastic stages of the welding process. The main challenge with computational approaches is to model the complex and at times indeterminate nature of the welding process, preferably in a simple and transparent manner. The study uses the example of butt welding thin rectangular plates, the results of main interest being the out-of plane distortion and longitudinal residual stresses. The FE model results are compared to experimental data and simplified analytical algorithms that have been developed and validated in the context of a project to improve the prediction and control of welding distortion in thin welded structures.