Laser and MIG Weld Failure CAE Modeling Method for Aluminum Structure Crash Analysis

A CAE modeling methodology has been developed for modeling laser and MIG (metal-inert-gas) weld separations. This new methodology can simulate weld failure in CAE aluminum vehicle crash analysis using a failure formulation derived from coupon test results. It is a generalized method and is intended to be applicable to any combination of the parameters such as thickness, material, and type of weld and impact speed. The method has been validated on the crash tests on straight and S-type rails with a hat section. The CAE prediction based on the modeling procedure correlates well with the test results for all the rail crush cases. The finite element analysis was conducted in RADIOSS environment. The welds are modeled using the beam-type spring element with the new weld damage parameters. The baseline curves for the spring element and the detailed projection equations developed are provided in this paper.