Calculation and simulation

Even in the development phase, calculations can already be used in order to investigate and assess the load-bearing capacity and suitability for use of designs, i.e. before their commissioning or component testing. In the case of designs with complex fabrication, such a procedure is particularly recommendable in order to take account of the peculiarities of welded joints and to minimise development and testing costs.

Taking all the relevant boundary conditions into consideration, finite element models are available for the simulation of the welding. In this respect, particular significance is attached to the true-to-reality portrayal of the clamping technology and the use of temperature-dependent material parameters. Not only distortion and residual stresses but also the temperature field and the phase distribution in the component are calculated. Due to simulation, these results are available even in places where measurements are impossible.