Challenges in Validation of Computational Weld Mechanics Code to Compute Residual Stress and Distortion in Welds

Abstract

Validation of a computational weld mechanics (CWM) code for a particular welding application requires an estimate of the difference between experimentally measured parameters and parameters computed by a computational model. This requires estimates of the uncertainty in both the experimental data and the computational data and this requires careful design of both the experiment and the CWM model. The authors experience in performing validation tests for a CWM code is summarized. An example of a validation test for a welding application that compares measured and computed transient temperatures, displacements and strains is described in detail that demonstrates that model can accurately predict this data. Challenges on both the experimental side and computational side are discussed but the greatest challenge is the limited availability of experimental data that has a measure of uncertainty.