An integrated DFMA–PDM model for the design and analysis of challenging similar and dissimilar welds

• Published in: Materials & design 2016-01, Vol.89, p.421-431
• Main Authors: Tasalloti, H., Eskelinen, H., Kah, P., Martikainen, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Arctic materials; Concurrent engineering (CE); Design engineering; Design for manufacturability; Design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) for welding; Dissimilar metal welding (DMW); Guidelines; Materials selection; Product data management; Product data management (PDM); Selection strategy for materials, welding processes, and filler metals; Welding; Weldments
• ISSN: 0264-1275; 1873-4197
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2015.10.012

To permit effective adoption of concurrent engineering (CE) in the design of welded structures, a new model is proposed that integrates the design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) strategy with a product data management (PDM) system. To enable effective integration, a traditional DFMA procedure was adapted to comply with the requirements of welding as an independent design module. The PDM system was integrated to the DFMA as a database of welding processes, materials, consumables, standards and guidelines, as well as for storing and tracking changes in the weldment design. An application-based selection method was also introduced to further facilitate selection of the base material, welding process and filler metals. An application was developed as a proof of principle and tested with Arctic conditions as the nominated service environment. The generic nature of the model makes it applicable to many welding operations if relevant databases and guidelines are prepared. The proposed approach can also be used in conjunction with CAD applications and manufacturers' PDM software to enhance the design of weldments and expedite decision-making as its use by designers requires only minimum welding and metallurgy knowledge. [Display omitted] •Concurrent engineering (CE) strategy was utilized to achieve a more efficient weldment design procedure.•A new design for manufacturing and assembly model integrated with a product data management system was developed.•An application-based method was introduced for determining suitable materials, the welding process and filler metals.