I'm welding (laser welding) a nitinol cylindrical tube to a nitinol flat surface, and I am evaluating three methods for the laser welding configuration (as depicted below):
I) using a groove on the surface for the tube before welding
II and IV) making a full cut-through in the surface for the tube insertion before welding.
III) direct welding of the tube to the surface
Which method would offer the best balance between durability (lower stress concentrations) and manufacturing feasibility? Insights into experiences with similar welding challenges or recommendations on materials and techniques would be greatly appreciated.
I have depicted the forces applied to the structure below (Fig. V).
When welding a cylindrical tube to a flat surface, there are several welding configurations that can be used based on the specific requirements of the project. Here are some common welding configurations that are often used for this type of welding:
1. Fillet Weld:
This is a common welding configuration where the cylindrical tube is welded to the flat surface along the joint where they meet. It is suitable for lighter loads and is relatively easy to perform.
2. Plug or Slot Weld:
In this configuration, holes are made in the flat surface where the tube will be welded, and the tube is inserted into these holes and welded around the perimeter. This provides a strong connection and is often used for structural applications.
3. Butt Joint with Fillet Weld:
In this configuration, the cylindrical tube is placed flush against the flat surface, creating a butt joint. A fillet weld is then applied along the joint to join the two pieces together. This configuration provides good strength and is suitable for heavier loads.
4. Lap Joint with Fillet Weld:
The cylindrical tube overlaps the flat surface in this configuration, creating a lap joint. A fillet weld is then applied along the overlapping area to join the two pieces. This configuration is easy to perform and provides good strength.
5. Groove Weld:
In this configuration, a groove is prepared in the flat surface where the cylindrical tube will be placed, and the tube is then welded into the groove. This configuration provides a strong and clean weld but requires more preparation.
I would probably prefer 1 or 4 due to good access and less risk from residual stresses. I believe 2 would be the riskiest configuration due to least favorable residual stresses.
I might be interested in the microstructure changes in the heat affected zones. I might also verify that hydrogen embrittlement doesn't affect the alloy you're using.
Position no . 'I' is suible for welding cylindrical tubes on horizontal surface.
Dear Sina:
Excellent question. What is thickness of your tubing? I suspect HAZ and residual stress or even burn thru could be serious issues.
We are joining fuel rod to end cap w/ no flaw. Zirc4 tubing 12 mm OD, wall 0.5mm. Presented Japan and U.S. nuclear.
There is another alternative for your situation. Lets talk.
Paul Cheng
FuseRing.com
I will opt for option (I) and (II) since there is large surface area for weldment to fill and also provides high stability based on the two orientations provided.
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