On the Structural Relevance of Residual Welding Stresses

In steel construction, non-uniform heating caused by welding during fabrication is unavoidable. This is how residual welding stresses and deformations occur. The processing conditions result in important differences in residual stress distribution and magnitude. In the paper the structural relevance will be analyzed by tests and simulations. The residual stresses have been measured by the use of a mobile X-Ray diffractometer. The thermomechanical analysis was carried out by a 2D model, the mechanical analysis by a 3D model. Case studies concern the buckling of compression members, single-side and double-side welding concerning lateral-torsional buckling of beams and full and partial stiffeners in welded knee joints. Residual stresses can also be important when straightening steel members. This is shown on an unregular longitudinal stiffened box girder.