Development of the shell structure building simulator with two-dimensional bead model for wire and arc-based additive manufacturing

Abstract

Wire and arc-based additive manufacturing (AM) is one of the additive manufacturing which applies the arc welding technology. This process is especially expected to be useful in fabricating large-sized die and prototype machine parts. However, it is difficult to determine process parameters such as torch feed speed, welding current, welding voltage because the optimal process parameters depend on various factors such as material, target shape, deposition area condition. Estimation of the deposited metal shape in advance helps to determine appropriate process parameters. In this study, two-dimensional bead model for shell structure was proposed and built shape simulator was developed. Then, the accuracy of the simulator was investigated. As a result, accuracy of the simulator was about ±1mm in the area where the influence of deposition start and stop was small.