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Optimal Weld Parameters, Weld Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Hydrogen Absorption: An Effective Analysis

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Abstract

Weld bead-in-grooves were deposited on low alloy, high strength steel plates (ASTM A 517 Grade “F”) with a commercial flux-cored filler wire, Auto-MIG 420, at different welding conditions. Microstructure and mechanical properties of welds were characterized by means of optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, EPMA, microhardness measurements, tensile tests, and Charpy impact tests. Hydrogen content of weld metals in as-weld condition and after exposing in simulated service condition was measured by LECO Gas Analyzer. Microstructure of weld metals consisted primarily of lath martensite with small amount of M-A constituents (Martensite-Austenite alternating layers). For some particular welding conditions, such as higher heat input and lower preheat temperatures etc., acicular ferrite is observed with lath martensite. Welds consisting of acicular ferrite in the microstructure showed improved mechanical properties as well as lower hydrogen absorption. The study provides guidelines for selecting proper welding conditions, which results in lower propensity to absorb hydrogen during service, as well as better mechanical properties. Necessity of post-weld heat treatment processes, which is mainly performed to achieve toughness, may be reduced; consequently saving cost and time of the welding process.

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Acknowledgments

The authors are thankful to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for sponsoring this research study. The authors also express thanks to Dr. P. C. Chakrabarty, Head of the Department, Metallurgical & Material Engineering Department, Jadavpur University, for his prompt support of instrumental facilities.

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  1. Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Department, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India

    J. Bhattacharya & T. K. Pal

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  1. J. Bhattacharya
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  2. T. K. Pal
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Correspondence to J. Bhattacharya.

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Bhattacharya, J., Pal, T.K. Optimal Weld Parameters, Weld Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Hydrogen Absorption: An Effective Analysis. J. of Materi Eng and Perform 20, 1336–1345 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11665-010-9771-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11665-010-9771-5

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