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.