Computational study on high frequency induction welding

Abstract

High frequency induction welding is widely employed for longitudinal seam welding of small scale tubes and pipes because of its relative high processing speed and efficiency. This research is aimed at understanding the variables that affect the quality of the high frequency induction welding. The welding variables involved in this study are the welding frequency, vee angle and tube thickness. Temperature distribution on the tube is calculated through three dimensional coupled electromagnetic and thermal FE analysis. The skin and proximity effects are considered in electromagnetic analysis. The influence of the impeder is also analyzed. The effects of the operating welding variables on the temperature distribution are investigated quantitatively by exhibiting the heat affected zone (HAZ). The results explain the mechanism of significant enhancement of welding efficiency when the impeder is used. The proper welding conditions without the overheated edge are suggested.