3-D Finite Element Modeling of the Welding Process Using Element Birth and Element Movement Techniques

Abstract

The modeling and simulation of the welding process has been of main concern for different fields of applications. Most of the modeling of such a problem has been mainly in 2-D forms that may also include many sorts of approximation and assumptions. This is due to limitations in the computational facilities as the analysis of 3-D problems consumes a lot of time. With the evolution of new finite element tools and fast computer systems, the analysis of such problems is becoming in hand. In this research, a simulation of the welding process with and without metal deposition is developed. A new technique for metal deposition using element movement is introduced. It helps in performing full 3-D analysis in a shorter time than other previously developed techniques such as the element birth.