Product Code: ICAL07_805

Local Strength and Rigidity Increase of Sheet Metal using Bead-On-Plate Laser Welds
Authors:
Mitja Schimek, Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V.; Hannover Germany
Andreas Ostendorf, Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V.; Hannover Germany
Oliver Meier, Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V.; Hannover Germany
Heinz Haferkamp, Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V.; Hannover Germany
Presented at ICALEO 2007

Local physical and geometrical effects which have only been observed so far as side effects in laser welding processes are to be used purposefully, in order to achieve locally adapted mechanical properties and to improve load-transferring components significantly. One aim of this project is the investigation of influences from laser-based welding seams on the structure rigidity for simplified sample geometries. A defined local increase in strength and rigidity will be achieved using linear and geometrically adapted bead-on-plate weldings. e innovative idea aims to combine the functional integration of the reinforcement in addition to laser welding of constructional joints. On the basis of different seam geometries it was proven that beat-on-plate weldings increase rigidity and strength. With the 3-point bending and tensile test the influence of geometry on rigidity and strength behavior in comparison without welding seams were proven. The results of the mechanical investigations were verified by FEM analysis. Furthermore the distortion, which develops due to the laser process, can be determined using simulation. To create the optimal seam, a FE model is provided and validated by practice attempts. At the end of the research concrete references for locally reinforcements of laser beam welded constructions are possible.