Distortion Control of the Curved Panel Using Elastic Bending Method

Finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental studies on an elastic bending method have been performed in order to control the angular distortion at the fillet weldment for curved panel. Process parameters for the elastic bending method such as clamping span and release time were analyzed with reference to welding condition and geometric effect of the curved panel, which can minimize or prevent the angular distortion by producing a proper skin stress to the fillet weldment. The amounts of the angular distortion decrease almost in a linear manner with an increase in the skin stress. The skin stress required for non-angular distortion at the fillet weldment is strongly dependent on the plate thickness, not the heat intensity applied. The clamping span for obtaining uniform skin stress was defined as functions of the plate thickness and length of the free edge. Clamp should be removed after the fillet weldment is cooled down to room temperature for non-angular distortion. Effectiveness of the elastic bending method established was verified by its application to an actual curved panel.