Abstract
Advanced high strength steels (AHSS) used in automotive structural components are commonly protected using zinc coatings. However, the steel/zinc system creates the potential for liquid metal embrittlement (LME) during welding. Recent studies have examined the impact of the welding electrode geometry on LME cracking severity and found there to be some effect, but did not explore the responsible mechanisms for the changes. This work shows that a radius tip electrode provides minimal cracking while a truncated cone shape showed severe LME, particularly in the shoulder region. Thermo-mechanical simulations showed the significance of the thermal contact at the outer region of the electrode/sheet interface (weld shoulder). It was observed that when the water-cooled electrode presses into the steel during the welding, causing a contact between the steel surface and the electrode sidewall, a sudden local cooling of the weld shoulder occurs. This cooling causes contraction and tensile stresses on the material surface, leading to LME. Additionally, the magnitude and location of heat transfer between the steel and electrode is controlled by the thermal contact conductance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
