Selected Aspects of the FEM-Based Numerical Modelling of Current Propagation in the Resistance Multispot Cruciform Welding of Bars

Abstract

The article presents selected aspects of the FEM-based analysis concerning resistance welding processes performed using multispot welding systems. The analysis was based on a three-spot welding machine used for the joining bars in the cruciform configuration. Both two and three-dimensional modelling was performed as the comparative analysis of two computing software packages, i.e. the commercial ANSYS Mechanical software package and the ARTAP software package, available on an open access basis. The research work involved the determination of current propagation in various welding process configurations as well as the identification of the percentage loss of welding current and power resulting from the bridging of current by neighbouring welds. The article discusses the effect of the method of the power supply and the earthing of the system of electrodes along with the welded material on the manner of current propagation. The analyses presented in the article were performed in relation to the DC power supply (inverter welding machine). Related calculations were performed using averaged (in terms of heat and resistance) material parameters.