This study presents a  number of finite-element {FE} models aimed at illustrating the effect of using different modelling strategies for the simulation of the thermo-elasto-plastic stages of the welding process.The main challenge with computational  approaches is to model the complex andat times indeterminate nature of the welding process, preferably in a simple and transparent manner.The study uses the example of butt welding thin rectangulajr plates,the result of main interest being the out-of plane distortion and longitudinal residual stresses.The FE model results are compared to experimental darta and sinplified analytical that hava been developed and validated in the context of a project to improve the prediction and control of welding distortion in thin welded structures.

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