Numerical simulation of efficient welding for thick plates in shipbuilding using simufact welding

Abstract In the welding process of medium-thick plates, it is common to create grooves and perform double-sided multi-pass welding. However, this approach leads to low welding efficiency and high costs. Hence, this study utilizes a groove-free, double-sided double-pass welding method to enhance welding efficiency and decrease shipbuilding expenses. A finite element model of groove-free submerged arc welding for medium-thick plates was established using SolidWorks software, and mesh division was carried out. Subsequently, numerical simulations of high-voltage, high-current double-sided double-pass submerged arc welding for medium-thick plates were conducted using Simufact Welding software. In the simulation, a mobile double ellipsoid heat source was utilized to replicate the dynamic alterations throughout the entire welding process. Subsequently, the temperature field of the welded material was computed. Finally, utilizing the temperature field results, the residual stress distribution within the welded material was computed through the thermal-structural coupling feature. The simulation results revealed a significant temperature gradient at the center of the heat source during the welding process, with a slower temperature change observed behind the heat source. Around 4000 seconds, the weldment cooled to room temperature. At this point, the thermal stress mainly concentrated around the weld seam. This numerical welding simulation serves as a crucial reference for designing welding process parameters and researching residual stress distribution. Consequently, it enhances welding efficiency in the field of shipbuilding.