Summary
Many of the parts integrated in automobiles and machine tools are welded components. These components suffer high temperature loads in the manufacturing process, which can lead to internal tensions and weak points in weld seam. Currently, when developing a welding process, physical tests are generally unavoidable. During these tests, work pieces have to be cut, polished and sanded to check the quality of the seam, destroying the piece – increasing costs and time.
Computer-aided engineering (CAE) analysis of weld seams and weld processes could dramatically reduce costs and time to manufacture. Additionally, CAE analysis can help to avoid negative side effects, such as excessive heat input or excessive welding penetration depth. For end users this means, in addition to the cost saving of the unnecessary welding samples, the life of the products can be prolonged and failures can be avoided if a better weld quality can be found by simulation.
L&W has developed a methodology to simulate the laser welding process by the Finite Element Method, gaining a lot of know-how regarding the energy input into metallic materials. This new simulation method broadens its product portfolio. L&W will also be able to address and serve new customers, who have also specialized in welding processes of all kinds. With only two to three new customer projects, the company's revenue can be increased by 5% to 10%.
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Country: | GERMANY |