On Computer Simulation Models of RSW Process

Due to its high complicacy and transitoriness and closeness, resistance spot welding (RSW), which is widely employed as a major sheet metal joining technology in automotive industry, has attracted specific attentions for computer simulations since last century. In this paper, four major RSW numerical models, namely thermal model, electro-thermal model, electro-thermo-mechanical model and electro-thermal model with fluid flow field, are introduced and investigated thoroughly. Especially, a newly available multi-physics coupling model is discussed and compared with previous models. Suggestions for future research directions are also proposed at the end.