Enhancing Welding Efficiency and Reliability in Unstructured Environments: A Computational Analysis of Spot-Welded Steel Sheet Connections

Abstract

High-strength steels play a crucial role in various industries such as shipbuilding, construction, and aerospace due to their unique properties. Welding of these steels in unstructured workspaces presents challenges in terms of variability in workpiece position, shape, and environmental conditions.  The research utilizes a portable robotic welding system with a novel seam-tracking method to address the challenges of welding in unstructured workspaces. Additionally, the study involves the analysis of different steel grades, including tool steels, stainless steel 440A, to understand their mechanical properties and applications. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the portable robotic welding system in accurately tracking welding seams in various positions. The study also provides insights into the mechanical properties and applications of different high-strength steel grades, emphasizing the importance of understanding spot weld behavior for improved structural performance. The findings underscore the significance of welding parameters, base-metal properties, and welding characteristics in determining the quality and durability of spot-welded joints.