Numerical simulation of nanosecond pulsed laser welding of eutectoid steel components

This paper considers the micro-closed seam laser welding of two nearly eutectoid carbon steel grades. These materials are difficult to weld due to their poor ductility. In particular, in closed seam welding, the laser beam starts and finishes in the same point thus increasing the risk of cracks. A numerical simulation of micro-welding of nearly eutectoid steels by nanosecond pulsed laser is carried out to evaluate the weld pool dimension and the heat-affected zone extension. Optimized welding parameters and strategy are determined by means of simulation and they are successfully applied in the welding of a 1.0%C shaft and a 0.7%C gear. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.