Smoothed particle hydrodynamics modeling of the friction stir welding process

Shekhar Bhojwani, University of Texas at El Paso

Abstract

A numerical model of the friction stir welding (FSW) process is given which is able to effectively model large deformations as well as the plastic deformation of FSW. The model employs discrete smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) to solve the governing equations of conservation of momentum. The advantage of this method over other conventional numerical approaches, such as Lagrangian and Eulerian finite elements and arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian, is its ability to handle large deformations without failing due to excessive distortion, and be able to explicitly track the material history as in Lagrangian methods. This is useful in understanding the plastic deformation and recrystallization process. The method is illustrated in a 2D SPH model of a simplified FSW. In this model the in-plane motion is investigated, illustrating how such a modeling approach can yield details of deformations, stresses and flow in the FSW process, that may not be achievable experimentally or by other numerical approaches. The model is qualitatively and quantitatively compared to experimental observations. In addition to the 2D plane strain model, a 3D model is presented which can reproduce some of the recirculation phenomena in the FSW carousel and provide insight into the plunge phase of the FSW tool into the workpiece.

Subject Area

Mechanical engineering

Recommended Citation

Bhojwani, Shekhar, "Smoothed particle hydrodynamics modeling of the friction stir welding process" (2007). ETD Collection for University of Texas, El Paso. AAI1449730.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/dissertations/AAI1449730

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