The Mathematics of Thermal Modeling: An Introduction to the Theory of Laser Material Processing, 2e

The Mathematics of Thermal Modeling, Second Edition, provides an introduction to the basics of the mathematics and physics needed to understand and use the physical principles employed in constructing models of a number of aspects of thermal modeling in industrial processes, notably laser welding; most of the techniques are applicable to many other technological processes, however.

The book demonstrates how insight can be gained from mathematical enquiry at a simple level and helps workers understand the way in which more sophisticated models can be constructed. Some necessary but less familiar mathematical techniques are explained in greater detail than before and some discussion of wave-like features in welds is now included. An understanding will be gained of the importance of studying the interaction of multiple features.

The book is equally suitable for engineers and material scientists at the Master’s or first-year PhD level at university, to similar students with a background in mathematics or physics who are new to laser or industrial technology, or for research workers coming to mathematical modeling of industrial thermal processes for the first time, whatever stage they have reached in their career development.

John Dowden is an Emeritus Professor in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science at Essex University in Colchester, England. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. In addition, he has been a member of a number of professional organizations including the Institute of Physics, the Laser Institute of America, and the European Institute for the Joining of Materials.

Professor Dowden has been actively engaged in research into the construction of thermal models from physical principles in several fields. These have included industrially relevant problems such as welding, with a particular interest in innovative technology based on the use of lasers, as well as problems in laser medicine and volcanology. His work has involved him in collaboration with experts in the fields concerned from many different institutions and many different countries.