ANSYS Weld Simulation: How to Model in ANSYS

[wuxarn]

Hi,

I'm new to the forum and is currently working on a project where we are going to do a FEM-analysis of a structure with parts that is welded together. The parts are not welded together by spotwelds, but welded along a line.
My problem is that I don't know how to simulate this in ANSYS, I'm not the one who originally created the CAD-model and currently I don't have the software used (P/E wildfire 5). I could post pictures later on when I get on my work-computer.

I'm using ANSYS 12 for all that matters.

Regards,
Wuxarn

 

[Mech_Engineer]

Modeling welds in ANSYS is a tricky subject. You basically have 2 options-

1. Create a bonded contact condition, calculate the reaction forces at that contact, and calculate the weld throat stress analytically using ANSYS's numbers.
2. Model the welds in the CAD software as separate volumes, and include these in the ANSYS mesh.

Keep in mind welding can change the physical properties of the material in the vicinity of the weld as well.

 

[xxChrisxx]

I'd just use the FEA outputs at the contact line, stops a whole lot of mess.