Numerical analysis of the dynamic behavior of arc by rotating laser-GMAW hybrid welding of T-joints.

• A numerical analysis model is developed for the arc of hybrid welding with T-joint. • The interaction behavior between arc and laser-induced metal vapor during welding process can be simulated. • Laser-induced metal vapor has a cooling effect on the arc. • The influence of laser rotation frequency on arc and laser-induced metal vapor is discussed. • The influence of laser rotation radius on arc and laser-induced metal vapor is discussed. In order to improve the reliability and stability of complex joints hybrid welding, this paper establishes an arc numerical analysis model, studies the T-joint high-frequency rotating laser-GMAW hybrid welding arc physical characteristics, and expounds the effects of laser rotation frequency along with rotation radius on arc plasma temperature, velocity, and metal vapor concentration field distribution. The research results show: the arc is more likely to start on the bottom plate and vertical plate surfaces, and the current density at the angle between the plates decreases significantly; temperature drops at the hybrid welding arc tail, the current effective distribution radius was reduced, and current density was more concentrated; the laser beam rotation frequency increases, the eruption speed of the metal vapor ejected from the keyhole decreases, while the meeting height of arc plasma and laser-induced metal vapor decreases; and, with an increase in rotation radius, the laser rotation speed increases accordingly. At the same rotation frequency, the injected metal vapor kinetic energy and rising height are reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]