Y. Chen, Y. Y. Wang, Center for Reliable Energy Systems, Dublin, OH
Mechanized gas-metal arc welding with narrow groove has been gaining popularity in high-strength pipeline construction because of its high productivity and the less amount of distortion induced during the welding process. Accurate calculations of both thermal cycles and microstructure properties both in the weld metal and the HAZ are needed for the optimization of the multi-pass welding process. A 2D finite element model for heat transfer analysis and microstructure evolution in a multi-pass girth weld is presented. Its predictions on cooling rates and microstrucure in the weld and HAZ were compared against experimental measurements, and good agreements were achieved.
Summary: This work presents a heat transfer analysis for GMAW with narrow groove. The finite element model considers the unique features in the multi-pass welding process, such as its high arc efficiency, electrode oscillation, and surface radiation,etc.
