Papers by Author: H. Haferkamp

Abstract: In subproject B1, local physical and geometrical effects which have only been observed so far as side effects in the laser joining process, are to be used purposefully, in order to achieve graded strength properties and to improve the component rigidity significantly. One aim of the work in the first requested period is the investigation of effects of laser-based joining connections on the structure rigidity for simplified sample geometries. A defined local strength increase will first be done on blind seams and later on seams with suitable seam geometries. In the context of SFB 675, laser joining processes are to be developed further so that the final assembly can take place with and other methods to increase strength for semi-finished products without considerably changing the local material characteristics. Beyond that, general rigidity effects of the connections are to be used purposefully for rigidity improvement.

Abstract: With the regard to the development of modern car bodies the focus lies on low production costs, environmental sustainability and high security standards. In order to meet these requirements the weight of modern car bodies has to be reduced consistently. Amongst other things, this becomes possible by the use of new high and ultra high strength steels. These materials are characterised by their high strength, good ductility and a high absorption capacity. In addition they have a lower density in comparison to other steels. TRIP and TWIP steel belong to these high and ultra high strength steels as well as iron-manganese steel. The development of new materials also puts new demands on the joining technologies used for producing semi finished products and parts of car bodies. Due to its high flexibility, its good automation and the minor influence on the work piece, laser beam welding is an established procedure in the automotive series production. The high cooling rates in combination with a carbon equivalent of the new materials which is usually higher then 0.4% lead to a martensitic solidification of the weld seam. Martensite is characterized by its low ductility and thus affects the forming capability as well as the absorption capacity of the welded parts. In order to avoid this effect a new process has been developed within the scope of the collaborative research program 362 (SFB 362, 1993-2005) at the Laser Zentrum Hannover. Using that process the weld seam structure is inductively annealed directly after the welding process. Experiments with high strength steel like TRIP700 and H320LA have shown that the tempering leads to an increase of ductility. The process is suitable for butt joints and overlap joints and is to be transferred into industrial usage within the scope of the project “Laser Beam Welding of Car Body Parts Made of High and Ultra High Strength Steel”. Based on the results obtained in the SFB 362 continuous investigations will be made in order to qualify the process for boron alloyed steel and iron-manganese steel.