Analytical model for the extent of the heat-affected zone occurring during overlap laser welding of dissimilar materials.

An analytical model to predict the extent of the heat-affected zone in laser-welded dissimilar materials with strongly differing thermal properties is presented. The model applies to the joining of two materials, where the heat-affected zone occurs in the joining partner with low thermal responsivity. Heat is supplied to the joining partner with high thermal responsivity and heat conduction is the only mechanism of heat transfer. The model is applied to the laser welding of solid nickel sheets to sheets of nickel foam. With a deviation of less than 1.5%, the extent of the heat-affected zone predicted by the model is in excellent agreement with the ones determined experimentally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]