Moving heat sources is a topic in transient heat transfer that is applicable to engineering problems, particularly welding engineering. In the early 20th Century, welding engineers began studying moving heat sources, both empirically and theoretically. Depending on welding parameters, plate geometry and material properties, the solution takes three different forms: , intermediate, or thin plate. The temperature distribution and cooling rates can be determined from theoretical solutions to the problem, allowing engineers to better understand the consequences of heat sources on weldability and end item performance.
