Finite element analysis of the thermo-mechanical behavior of the resistance spot welding

Abstract

In this study, the formation of the welding nugget and the effect of welding process parameters on nugget shape and size, have been studied. And a combined thermal-electrical-mechanical simulation system is done using a Finite Element Analysis program, and the effect of the welding parameters such as current, time, electrode force, contact resistance temperature distribution on the contact resistance were investigated. The results provided useful information source on the formation of the nugget, and thus provided opportunities to play first true estimate of the quality of welding process.