From microstructure to deformation and fracture behaviour of aluminium welded joints - a holistic modelling approach

In this study, a new modelling approach for aluminium weldments has been ex plored. In the approach, the microstructure data calculated from welding an alysis are directly transferred to the deformation and damage analysis. Wit h an interpolation equation between the properties of the base metal and th e fully reverted heat affected zone (HAZ), the exact dimension and gradient of mechanical properties of the whole HAZ are automatically predicted. The overall effect of the microstructure evolution during welding, and the res ulting deformation and damage capacity of the welded joint can then be anal ysed. This approach has been applied in two case studies, one cross weld te nsile specimen, which is used for the parameter study, and one real T-joint from which test data are available. With a linear interpolation for the fl ow stress and ductile damage parameter, the finite element results based on this new approach are in good agreement with the test data. (C) 2001 Publi shed by Elsevier Science B.V.