Finite element simulation of laser beam welding

Abstract

Joining process play a significant role in producing lightweight constructions. Specifically, the use of Aluminum alloys for structural components or body airplane panels is one of the major challenges for joining because AA6xxx are very susceptible to hot cracks forming during fusion welding. As laser beam welding is increasingly used for welding aircraft components, special techniques are required to avoid hot cracks in weld seams. The impact of the process characteristics, e.g., the temperature field, the temperature gradients, or the molten pool geometry, can be determined by using numerical methods, e.g. Finite element method, as used here. Results presented here, demonstrate strong possibilities of numerical simulation of laser beam welding.