Development of Plastic Zones during the Thermal Cycle of Welding

Abstract

The high temperatures induced during the welding process cause transient thermal stresses and non-continuous plastic strains around the weld. Uneven heating and cooling processes together with these plastic strains result in residual (welding) stresses, [1]. This paper deals with the development of plastic zones, related to welding stresses and their effects on the bearing capacity from a Civil-engineering perspective.