Indenter geometry
The shape and tip angle of the indenter affect the stress distribution and plastic deformation during welding. An optimal geometry prevents cracks and improves the strength of the weld.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism
The indenter geometry determines how strongly the workpiece is pressed under the load. A pointed indenter concentrates stress on a small area and causes strong plastic deformation.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
A too-pointed geometry can lead to high local stresses, which can cause cracks or hot cracks in the material. A too-flat tip distributes stress over a larger area and can lead to uneven deformation and insufficient strength of the weld.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
Use indenters with an optimal tip angle of 120-135 degrees for most applications. This angle provides good stress concentration and minimizes the risk of cracks. Regularly check the geometry of the indenter for damage or deformation to ensure it performs its function optimally.