This paper describes finite element simulations of a manufacturing process chain consisting of

forming, weld preparation by milling, laser welding and stress relief heat treatment of an alloy 718

aero-engine part. The work also includes experimental validation with optical measurements of the

part after each process step. Approximation and discretization errors were avoided by keeping the

same mesh and constitutive model. The results show that the remaining stresses affect the subsequent

manufacturing process step and therefore, simulation of the process chain is essential. The accuracy

with respect to the geometry showed relatively good agreement between measurement and simulation.