Paper based WAAM model in Abaqus

Categories: Abaqus, Paper Based Models

Engineering Downloads

Reza Tangestani

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In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to build a thermo-mechanical model for WAAM using Abaqus, Python scripting, and a FORTRAN DFLUX subroutine. You’ll understand how to simulate the thermal history, apply it to a mechanical model, and use the element birth technique to represent material addition during the process. The video also shows how to apply a custom heat source model and automate setup using Python helping you save time on complex simulations.

About Course

You can download a thermo-mechanical simulation model for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) here. WAAM is a large-scale additive manufacturing process capable of producing parts several meters in size. This model was used in a published study (linked below) and has been validated against results from other research:

Link to Paper

The WAAM model focuses on analyzing the effect of rolling on residual stress in WAAM parts. To do this, it first calculates the thermal history, which is then used as input for the mechanical analysis.

Because building such a model in Abaqus CAE is time-consuming, three Python scripts were created to automate model setup, including element birth for material addition. A FORTRAN DFLUX subroutine was also developed to define the heat source.

This short video (under 15 minutes) explains how to use the model. You’ll also get the output files and Abaqus CAE file, so you can apply it directly or adapt it for your own work.