Feasibility study of shell element-based elastic FE approach for welding-induced thermal distortion prediction in HDPE welded structures

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is considered an eco-friendly material for boat construction worldwide. However, managing thermal distortion in HDPE welding is challenging, impacting productivity. Traditional steel shipbuilding has established methods to predict welding-induced thermal distortion, but HDPE lacks comprehensive studies and standards. This research explores applying the elastic Finite Element (FE) approach, commonly used in steel structures, to HDPE welding. The elastic FE approach simplifies complex welding simulations, enabling its use in large structures like ship hulls. Our research assesses whether HDPE welded specimens exhibit similar distortion patterns to conventional welded structures and whether consistent parameters yield similar thermal distortion. Alignment between our FE analysis, based on specimen data, and experimental results validates the feasibility of using the elastic FE approach to predict HDPE thermal distortion. This study suggests it as a practical method to enhance HDPE boat manufacturing productivity.