Investigation of Weld Line Movement in Tailor Welded Blank Forming

Abstract

Weld line movement is one of the important parameters in Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) forming. Weld line movement is important from some aspects: First, weld line position in the final part is so important because TWB part will be assembled with other parts and weld line movement can influence on assembling. Second, weld line movement which often is towardthe stronger (thicker) metal cause necking and fracture in weaker (thinner) metal. A forming criterion for tailor welded blank will be presented based on the analytical model in this research. This criterion suggests Limit Strength Ratio (LSR) and Limit Thickness Ratio (LTR) for forming limit of TWB.When thickness ratio or strength ratio in tailor welded blank is greater than LTR or LSR, weld line movement will be increased and cause forming decrease. Some simulation tests are done for correction investigation of this theoretical model.