Three-dimensional finite element analysis for estimation of the weld residual stress in the dissimilar butt weld piping

摘要

Numerous dissimilar metal welds are used to connect carbon steel and stainless steel in nuclear power plants. Recently, some cracks have occurred in the dissimilar metal welds, and welding residual stress is considered as a contributing factor to the cracks. In this study, welding residual stresses in dissimilar butt weld piping were evaluated by the 3-dimensional (3-D) finite element method. Welding residual stresses along the circumference of heat affected zones as well as weld regions were obtained through the analysis, which could not be obtainable with 2-dimensional (2-D) analysis. The differences between 2-D analysis and 3-D analysis are presented in this paper.