Experimental study and theoretical modelling of ultrasonic wave propagation in resistance spot welds.

The theoretical and experimental study of resistance spot weld quality has a long history. Since the invention of the method manufacturers are concerned about the means of quality assurance of the joints. One of the most promising current techniques of quality inspection is the real time ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation. In such a system the acoustic signals are sent through the spot weld during welding and then analyzed to predict the size of the future joint. In spite of its purely industrial application and seemingly easy setup the problem involves several complicated mechanisms to be described using a physical-mathematical approach. This thesis is concerned with the development of mathematical models describing thermal dynamics in the system and acoustic wave propagation through it. The analysis of these results helps to understand the ways the system could affect the transmitted signal. The models are compared with experimental observations. Possible applications of the developed simulations are discussed.Dept. of Physics. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2003 .C49. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-01, page: 0224. Adviser: Roman Gr. Maev. Thesis (M.Sc.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2003