Multi-layer welding involves the process of stacking many beads, so it requires much time and effort to predict the deformation through experimentation or numerical analysis. In this study, a systematic method for predicting transverse angular distortion in multi-layer butt welding has been proposed. First, the database was established through bead-on-plate welding experiments, which consisted of the relationship between welding conditions, the bead geometry, the material thickness, and the angular distortion. Then, when the arbitrary welding conditions and the shape of the butt joint were input, the method calculated the angular distortion per pass using the geometric principle and the database. The obtained prediction curves were verified with the V-groove welding experimental results. In addition, the characteristics of angular distortion in multi-layer butt welding were discussed. It was found that the angular distortion curve is a function of the number of passes and groove geometry. This algorithm is based on a numerical approach that saves computational time using databases and geometry, so it is suitable for industrial applications.
Keywords: angular distortion; geometric principle; multi-layer welding; numerical approach; prediction curve; systematic method.