Study of the transient temperature profiles induced by changes of the welding parameters during aluminum two plate arc butt-welding

The numerical study and calculation of transient temperatures developing during the arc-welding process of 6063 T5 aluminum plates is presented. The mathematical model is based on the differential energy conservation equation. The governing equation is solved via numerical simulation using the finite control volume method to obtain the three dimensional and transient temperature profiles induced during the welding process. The moving heat source is considered as represented by a centered Gaussian-Bell distribution, while the base material is assumed to be homogeneous and isotropic with temperature-dependent thermal properties. Radiation and convection are computed and introduced into the model through the boundary conditions as an empirical temperature-dependent correlation. Phase-change phenomenon is included as a discontinuity in the material specific heat. Computed results show the influence of the variation of the welding parameters such as the arc power and welding speed on the computed transient temperatures, penetration and process efficiency.