CFD based visualization of the finger shaped evolution in the gas metal arc welding process

A CFD based numerical study of the gas metal arc welding process was used to visualize momentum flow in the produced fingertip shaped molten pool. Arc process models were employed with temperature-independent material properties in a phase, and measured process parameters. The results of the welding simulation were in good agreement with the etched cross-section microscopy and temperature history of the experimental results. Molten pool speed information was utilized to track momentum flow in the weld pool using color maps and streamline plots. As results, it was determined that the droplet impingement momentum first strikes the bottom of the molten pool and digs a deep fingertip penetration. Then, the droplet impingement momentum detours backward at a deep level and moves forward at a shallow level, and widens the molten pool width. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.