Paper Title
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF METAL EXPANSION JOINT MANUFACTURED WITH LASER BEAM SUPPORT

Abstract
Abstract: In this paper discussion and results of numerical simulation of metal expansion joint manufacturing was presented. Innovative manufacturing process combining mechanical forming supported by laser beam heating was described by authors. Advantages of precise heating of expansion joint surface during forming by laser beam was presented. The authors explained mechanism of expansion joint forming and its main functionality, which is compensate for temperature differences and stresses in construction materials. Stress-strain concentration caused by mechanical and thermal forces occurred during forming process was analyzed. Authors use numerical simulation based on Marc solver to investigate selected properties of manufactured expansion joints. Simulation was performed in order to obtained laser scanning parameters as well. High compatibility of simulation results with experimental studies was achieved. Based on thermo-mechanical analysis stress-strain distribution was investigated. Results of abovementioned analysis shown stress concentration in crest and elevated values in root area. Maximum values of calculated stress-strain distribution, however do not exceed critical values, therefore, no additional heat treatment is required. Obtained results confirm potential of proposed expansion joints forming process. Keywords: Laser Beam Treatment, Numerical Simulation, MES analysis, Metal Expansion Joint,