Numerical simulation of the butt-fusion welding process

This study concerns an industrial application of modelling and simulation for the butt-fusion welding process. We concentrate on investigating evolutionary heat transfer in the immediate vicinity of the weld. The model will facilitate the prediction of process parameters under certain operating conditions and, in particular, should (a) predict visible failures, such as the joint interface not reaching the fusion temperature of the pipe material, (b) predict less visible potential failures, such as internal hot spots which should solidify before the pipe is moved, and (c) determine near-optimal operating conditions. We fmus on the construction, validation, and robustness of an enthalpy-based model with reference to simplifying assumptions, comparison with measured data, and analysis of the numerical scheme.