Comparative assessment of dendrite growth and microstructure predictions during laser welding of Al 6061 via 2D and 3D phase field models

Abstract

A 3D phase field model is developed and used to predict dendrite growth and microstructure development during the laser welding processes of Al 6061 alloy. The 3D model results are compared with the 2D model results to illustrate the importance of 3D simulation in predicting three dimensional microstructure morphologies. By using a validated, comprehensive laser welding model to calculate the complex and strongly transient temperature field, the 3D phase field model is able to accurately predict the microstructure anywhere within the fusion zone of the laser weld, while the 2D phase field model lacks the same fidelity.