Three-dimensional welding analysis using an adaptive mesh scheme Original Research Article

One major problem arising in finite element analysis of welding is the long computer times required for a complete three-dimensional analysis. An adaptive strategy for coupled thermo-mechanical analysis of welding is applied in order to reduce the computer time. The paper describes a generic posteriori error formulation that evaluates both the thermal and the mechanical error distribution. It is combined with a hierarchic remeshing strategy using a so-called graded element. The error indicator together with the known movement of the local heat source is used to predict areas of refinement. An increased accuracy is obtained with a reduced computational effort.