Strength Prediction FEM Model Development of Welded Steel Joint

Several studies have been conducted to predict issues caused by the welding process. The finite element method is extremely useful in analysing this welding process. Generally, in the analysis of welded structures, the welded joint is assumed to be rigid to large structure on vehicle-body crash or fatigue. This assumption does not require a theoretical background of a complicated welding process; therefore, it is relatively easy to set up an analysis model, which significantly reduces the analysis time. However, material properties and mechanical behavior of welded structures cannot be expressed, and there is no sufficient verification for this in several industries. Moreover, few studies have reported on strength analysis, including the welding process; therefore, this study presents a simple modeling using commercial program based on the finite element method. The welding process is simulated by identifying the welding-heat-source variable through experiments and a value close to the measured deposited metal and fusion-zone size are obtained. A flow stress–strain curve based on a uniaxial tensile test is obtained and the tensile strength of the welded specimen is analyzed.