Tomasz Góral

Pad welding is one of the techniques used to extend the service life of components. Although this method has been applied for many years, there is still much to explore, as increasingly advanced filler materials are being developed. These materials require thorough investigation to find the best technological parameters process parameters that enable full utilization of their material properties. One of the most efficient and versatile hardfacing methods is gas metal arc welding (GMAW). In this study, the influence of GMAW process parameters on the geometry and quality of single beads deposited onto a base material was analyzed for three selected wear-resistant materials. Based on the conducted experiments, process parameters ensuring the highest bead quality were identified. The selected parameters were subsequently used to manufacture specimens for wear resistance testing. The paper highlights all factors affecting the service life of wear-resistant surfaces. The results indicate that not only the selection of appropriate wear-resistant materials is critical, but also the proper choice of technological process parameters and the hardfacing technique.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the optimization of support structures for horizontal pressure vessels using simulation modeling. The research aims to reduce the mass of the support while ensuring structural integrity and identifying opportunities for future improvements in materials and design. Design/methodology/approach: The research was conducted by creating a three-dimensional support model in SolidWorks, compliant with GOST standards. The stress–strain behavior and optimization of the support structure were analyzed using SolidWorks’ Simulation module, which employs the finite element method (FEM). Non-uniform load distributions, such as sinusoidal and parabolic loads, were applied during the loading process to enhance the accuracy of the simulation without incorporating the vessel body itself. Findings: The simulation results showed that optimizing the support structure led to a 15% reduction in its mass. Even though this also resulted in a 23% increase in equivalent stresses in critical areas, the support structure remains safe to operate, with a strength reserve factor under static loads exceeding 2. Research limitations/implications: Further research should include simulations that account for the type and properties of connections between elements, particularly weld calculations. Additionally, future studies could explore the use of higher-grade steels than the tested 09G2C steel to achieve further mass reductions, provided the cost is justifiable. Practical implications: This study is particularly relevant for the design of pressure vessel supports used in vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers transporting liquids or liquefied hydrocarbon gases. Reducing the mass of support structures can increase payload capacity, offering significant commercial benefits in transportation efficiency. Social implications: A lighter, optimized support structure can contribute to more fuel-efficient transportation of liquid and gas materials, thereby reducing the environmental impact of logistics operations. Originality/value: The originality of this study lies in the combined use of topological and parametric optimization techniques for modeling horizontal pressure vessel supports. The paper provides valuable insights into how simulation-based optimization can lead to significant mass reductions while maintaining structural safety. This research is particularly useful to engineers and designers working on pressure vessel supports for transportation applications. Keywords: pressure vessel, tank, tank support, simulation modeling, topological optimization, parametric optimization.