Numerical study of steady-state laser melting problem

Abstract

A two-dimensional steady-state laser melting problem is numerically simulated. A vorticitystream function formulation is used to solve momentum equations and a method of selecting the optimum relaxation parameter is suggested. Steady-state finite-difference equations are solved by an alternative direction implicit (ADI) scheme using a false transient formulation. A solid and liquid interface is approximated by steps. The role of surface tension driven flow on total heat transfer is studied. Comparative studies are carried out between conduction and convection results. The flow pattern in the molten pool is presented through stream function plots which show the effect of laser power on the size and strength of secondary cells. The effect of a secondary cell on the total heat transfer and pool shape is analysed under varying laser power.