Numerical simulation of laser preheating of friction stir welding of dissimilar metals

Friction stir welding, FSW, of harder metal alloys is difficult to perform, like here dissimilar welding of titanium alloy to stainless steel in butt joint configuration. One major limitation is tool wear which can be reduced by preheating with a laser beam. A mathematical model to calculate the tool forces during FSW was developed further. The calculations show that the laser beam reduces forces at the pin and shoulder of the FSW-tool, accompanied by reduced heat generation through the tool. Within its operating limits, the process has low sensitivity on the lateral position of the leading laser beam. The model supports the understanding and optimisation of the complex interaction zone of forces and heat around the FSW-tool.