Analysis of the Influence of Welding Conditions on the Angular Deformation and Residual Stresses in Thick Plate using FEM

Welding conditions are a set of parameters such as amperage, voltage, welding speed, and efficiency, which significantly influence the heat input during the process. When joining steel pieces through welding, thermal loads are induced, resulting in imperfections like angular deformation and residual stresses. If not properly controlled, these imperfections can compromise the quality, integrity, and durability of structures. Consequently, numerous studies have investigated the influence of heat input on welding defects in various types of joints, commonly butt, and T joints, through the control of welding parameters. This study employs a Thermo-Elasto-Plastic Analysis (TEPA) using the Finite Element Method (FEM) to examine the impact of welding conditions on T-joints of thick S355J2 steel plates, widely used as stiffeners. The Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) process is considered to recommend an optimal range of welding conditions to minimize angular deformation and residual stresses.