Finite Element Simulation and Experimental Investigation of Welding Residual Stress for PWR Safe-End

A 3-D sequential coupling finite element simulation is performed to investigate the temperature field and residual stress in the dissimilar metal weld of a PWR safe-end and nozzle. Chemical compositions and welding residual stress of the dissimilar metal weld are measured. And residual stress of the welded joint of nozzle and safe-end has been studied, aiming to provide a reference for the fabrication and operation of safe-end and nozzle. The testing results show that the experiment results are consistent with FE results. The FE simulation method can be used for the welding residual analysis of the welded joint. And, the calculating results show that large hoop (S33) and axial (S22) of welding residual stresses are generated in the weld metal. The maximum tensile and compressive stresses of S22 and S33 are all in the weld metal or at the interface of the nozzle and weld metal. Due to the difference in mechanical properties and chemical compositions between the base metal and weld metal, a discontinuous stress distribution is generated across the interface between the weld metal and nozzle.