Automated welding procedures. (Software exchange).

Capability: Soar is a collection of desktop PC applications that provide analytical methods of determining automated welding procedures. The software combines conduction heat transfer process models with optimization methods to provide energy and power, speed, and lens solutions that are applicable in gas tungsten arc, plastic arc, and laser welding as well as in any other processes where filler metal is not deposited. The software uses point-and-click interfaces to aid material selection, weld sizing, parameter values, and procedure queries on off-optimal conditions. Graphical displays show the achievable welds and weld procedures mapped on 2-D contours and 3-D surfaces of possible model outputs. The software features a set of routines to display the temperature contour extents adjacent to the welds for both continuous and spot welding applications. Software is applicable to 304 stainless steel, 1018 steel, tin, molybdenum, titanium, nickel 200, Kovar, Hastelloy C4, Hastelloy C22., and Hastelloy B2. Other ma terials can be added via weld test and analysis.

Hardware: PC running Windows 95, 98, 2000, or NT.

Developer: Rick Eisler, Sandia National Laboratories, P.O. Box 5800, M/S 1003, Albuquerque, NM 87185-1003; (505) 845-4838; [email protected]; www.sandia.gov/soar.

Cost: Free.

Circle 177 on Reader Service Card