Mathematical modelling of metal active gas arc welding

A feasibility study has been conducted to determine whether mathematical models can be used for the numerical simulation of metal active gas (MAG) arc welding. In the present work, a three-dimensional, nonstationary thermal model for fillet welding is developed. The transient temperature distribution in the base metal is numerically analysed to estimate the molten pool size using a finite difference model based on the heat flow equation, and the theoretical configuration of the molten pool is calculated, taking account of the balance of gravity, surface tension, and arc pressure. The developed model can be applied to various welding processes such as multipass welding, lap welding, and welding with torch oscillation. To evaluate the validity of the model analysis, the calculated results arc compared with experimental results for MAG welding. Good correspondence is demonstrated between experiment and calculation.