# Finite element study on the role of convection in laser surface melting

Ravindran, K (1994) Finite element study on the role of convection in laser surface melting. In: Numerical Heat Transfer Part A: Applications, 26 (5). pp. 601-618.

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## Abstract

The surface-tension-driven convection in laser melting has been simulated by the Galerkin finite element method. The governing laminar, axisymmetric convection equations are solved in a sequential manner by an explicit projection method. The numerical results show a strong dependence of the flow pattern on the value of the temperature coefficient of surface tension $(\sigma_T)$. Results are presented for a range of $\sigma_T$ values typical in steel, $-10^{-4}&les;σ_T&les;+10^{-4} N/mK$. As the melt depth is more affected than the width, the melt aspect ratio changes due to convection. The melt pool is broad and shallow when $\sigma_T<0$, and deep and narrow when $\sigma_T>0$ (15 refs.)

Item Type: Journal Article Division of Mechanical Sciences > Mechanical Engineering 16 Nov 2006 27 Aug 2008 12:19 http://eprints.iisc.ernet.in/id/eprint/8312