Analysis of Keyhole Formation and Stability in Laser Spot Welding

The formation and stability of stationary laser weld keyholes were investigated using a numerical simulation. The effect of multiple reflections in the keyhole was estimated using the ray tracing method, and the free surface profile, flow velocity and temperature distribution were calculated numerically. In the simulation, the keyhole was formed by the displacement of the melt induced by evaporation recoil pressure, while surface tension and hydrostatic pressure opposed cavity formation. A transition mode having the geometry of the conduction mode with keyhole formation occurred between the conduction and keyhole modes. At laser powers of 500W and greater, the protrusion occurred on the keyhole wall, which resulted in keyhole collapse and void formation at the bottom. Initiation of the protrusion was caused mainly by collision of upward and downward flows due to the pressure components, and Marangoni flow had minor effects on the flow patterns and keyhole stability.bility.

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