Enter the weld length and shrinkage factor (or total shrinkage) into the calculator to estimate the total weld shrinkage. Use the Heat Input tab to calculate linear energy (heat input per unit length) from voltage, current, travel speed, and efficiency.
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Weld Shrinkage Formula
The following formula is used to estimate the total (linear) weld shrinkage from a shrinkage factor.
TS = WL * SF
Variables:
- TS is the total shrinkage (same length units as WL, e.g., inches or mm)
- WL is the weld length (e.g., inches or mm)
- SF is the shrinkage factor (dimensionless ratio, e.g., in/in or mm/mm)
To calculate the total weld shrinkage, multiply the weld length by the shrinkage factor.
What is Weld Shrinkage?
Weld shrinkage is the reduction in size that occurs in the metal as it cools after welding. The heat from the welding process causes the metal to expand, and as it cools, it contracts, leading to shrinkage. This can affect the overall dimensions of the welded structure and must be accounted for in the design and fabrication process to ensure the final product meets the required specifications.
How to Calculate Weld Shrinkage?
The following steps outline how to calculate the total weld shrinkage.
- First, determine the weld length (WL).
- Next, determine the shrinkage factor (SF) as a dimensionless ratio (e.g., in/in or mm/mm).
- Next, gather the formula from above = TS = WL * SF.
- Finally, calculate the total shrinkage (TS) in the same length units as WL.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
weld length (WL) = 50 inches
shrinkage factor (SF) = 0.001 in/in
total shrinkage (TS) = WL × SF = 50 × 0.001 = 0.05 inches
