FEM Simulation of Welding Distortion in Thin-plate Panel Structures by means of Inherent Strain Method

摘要

In this study, welding distortion in a large thin-plate panel structure was predicted using elastic FEM based on the inherent strain theory and the interface element formulation. The welding distortions in the thin-plate model computed by small and large deformation theories were compared. The comparison suggests that the geometrical nonlinearity should be carefully considered when welding distortion in a thin plate structure is predicted. In addition, the influences of welding procedure and assembly sequence on the final distortion were examined numerically. Simulation results indicate that both welding procedure and assembly sequence significantly affect the final deformation.