Development of Welding Fluxes for Hardfacing Based on Mineral Raw Materials of the Far Eastern Region of Russia

Abstract

This paper presents results of the research aimed at the creation of the ilmenite-fluorite welding flux using mineral raw materials of the Far Eastern region of Russia. To analyze possible physical and chemical processes in the slag system, thermodynamic calculations were carried out. The experimental research resulted in mathematical dependences that make it possible to select flux components that would ensure the desired properties of the hardfacing surfaces formed. Experimental overlay welding sessions were performed to determine the welding-technological characteristics and properties of the weld deposit. It was shown that the flux consisting of 50% of the mineral components extracted in the Far Eastern region and 50% of the standard flux АN22 is basic (basicity В = 1.46) and has low oxygenation capacity (А = 0.22). This facilitates reduction processes in the slag bath and, as a consequence, allows obtaining high quality weld deposits. The required mechanical and performance properties of the coatings formed are maintained owing to the reduction of alloying elements and possible formation of carbides (CrFe)₇C₃ or (CrFe)₂₃C₆, alloyed cementite (CrFe)₇C₃, and other substances. As an example, the weld deposit produced by overlay welding using the AN22PK-DMS flux is characterized by the highest content of chromium (12–15%) and the highest content of manganese (6%).