Determining the keyhole geometry based on double-elliptic distribution of plasma arc pressure

The plasma arc pressure plays an important role in determining the keyhole formation and size. So it is of great significance to choose adaptive distribution mode of the plasma arc pressure for determining keyhole shape and size. In this study, through employing a double-elliptic distribution mode of plasma arc pressure, three-dimensional keyhole was numerically simulated. The unsymmetric feature of the keyhole inside the weld pool was described. The development of keyhole was demonstrated under different levels of welding current. The critical current required to form an open keyhole was obtained for the study cases.