Monte-Carlo-Assisted Phase Field Simulations of Grain Structure Evolution during the Welding Process

A Monte-Carlo-assisted phase field model for the simulation of grain growth in metals and alloys is presented. The simulation time in this model is connected to real time through an experimental data-based kinetic model. Site selection probability is introduced to simulate grain structure evolution under non-isothermal conditions. The grain evolutions with temporal and spatial distributions of temperature during the welding process are comprehensively reproduced. The average size and topological texture of the generated grains in the fusion zone and heat-affected zone are examined. The computed results are compared to experimental data for laser-welding two alloys: Fe-6.5 wt.%Si and low-carbon steel. The applications of real-time-temperature based phase field simulation to material processing indicate significant promise for understanding grain structures during the welding process or additive manufacturing processes.

Automated summary

A Monte-Carlo-assisted phase field model is proposed to simulate grain growth in metals and alloys. The simulation time is connected to real time through an experimental data-based kinetic model. Site selection probability is introduced to simulate grain structure evolution under non-isothermal conditions. The study comprehensively reproduces the grain evolutions during the welding process, and the computed results are compared to experimental data for two alloys. The application of real-time-temperature based phase field simulation shows significant promise for understanding grain structures during material processing.