Virtual Fabrication Technology Weld Modeling Tool and Its Applications in Distortion Predictions

A virtual fabrication technology (VFT) is introduced in this paper. It is a state-of-the-art cutting and welding simulation tool developed by Battelle and Caterpillar in the past few years. It can model extremely large and complicated structure fabrications. Extensive full-scale experiments have validated the accuracy and predictive power. It can be used to reduce fabrication cost and improve quality by minimizing and controlling distortions. Two application examples are presented to illustrate how to apply this tool in welded structure design and manufacture.