Numerical simulation of P91 pipe welding including the effects of solid-state phase transformation on residual stresses

Abstract

The methodology of numerically simulating residual stresses in a welded P91 pipe section is described. The finite element (FE) method has been applied to simulate residual axial and hoop stresses generated in the weld region and heat affected zone (HAZ) of an axisymmetric 50-bead circumferentially butt-welded P91 steel pipe, with outer diameter of 145 mm and wall thickness of 50mm. The FE simulation consists of a thermal analysis which is followed by a sequentially-coupled structural analysis. Solid-state phase transformation (SSPT), which is characteristic of P91 steel during welding thermal cycles, has been modelled in the FE analysis by allowing for volumetric changes in steel and associated changes in yield stress due to austenitic and martensitic transformations. Phase transformation plasticity has also been taken into account. Preheat and interpass temperature control has been included in the modelling process. Thermally-obtained temperature contours indicate the size of the weld region, parent metal penetration, and HAZ. Residual axial and hoop stresses have been depicted through the pipe wall thickness as well as along the outer surface of the pipe. The results indicate the importance of including SSPT in the simulation of stresses during the welding of P91 steel.