Modeling and analysis of laser melting within a narrow groove weld joint
- Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)
The reflective propagation and absorption of laser energy within a narrow metal root opening has been modeled using a computer-based optical design program to predict the location of melting. A three-dimensional ray tracing model considers the effect of laser parameters, joint geometry and material reflectivity to predict the location of energy absorption and the onset of melting. Focal spot location changes and F number changes, corresponding to a matrix of experimental conditions, are used as input to a series of simulation runs. Experimental data are used to define the location of the onset of melting in 304 stainless steel and to verify the energy density threshold of melting predicted from simulation results. Melt patterns, produced by single Nd:YAG laser pulses, on the joint groove faces are analyzed and compare well with calculation and simulation results. The results of this study provide quantitative experimental validation of this model that can be used to understand and apply fundamental principals of nonimaging optics for enhanced laser processing.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 343628
- Journal Information:
- Welding Journal, Vol. 78, Issue 4; Other Information: PBD: Apr 1999
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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