Enter the linear energy, weld length, and shrinkage factor into the calculator to determine the total shrinkage of the weld. This calculator helps in estimating the amount of shrinkage that will occur due to the welding process.
Weld Shrinkage Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the total weld shrinkage.
TS = LE * WL * SF
Variables:
- TS is the total shrinkage (inches)
- LE is the linear energy (kJ/in)
- WL is the weld length (inches)
- SF is the shrinkage factor (inches per inch)
To calculate the total weld shrinkage, multiply the linear energy by the weld length and 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 linear energy (LE) in kJ/in.
- Next, determine the weld length (WL) in inches.
- Next, determine the shrinkage factor (SF) in inches per inch.
- Next, gather the formula from above = TS = LE * WL * SF.
- Finally, calculate the total shrinkage (TS) in inches.
- 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.
linear energy (LE) = 2 kJ/in
weld length (WL) = 50 inches
shrinkage factor (SF) = 0.001 in/in
