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Title: Surface preparation effects on GTA weld shape in JBK-75 stainless steel

Journal Article · · Welding Journal (Miami); (United States)
OSTI ID:6545562
;  [1];  [2]; ;
  1. AWS Precision Joining Center, Wheat Ridge, CO (United States)
  2. EG and G Rocky Flats Plant, Golden (Colombia)

The results of a study are reported here on the effects of surface preparation on the shape of autogenous gas tungsten arc (GTA) welds in JBK-75, an austenitic precipitation hardenable stainless steel similar to A286. Minor changes in surface preparation produced substantial changes in the fusion zone shape and welding behavior of this alloy. Increased and more consistent depth of fusion (higher d/w ratios) along with improved arc stability and less arc wander resulted from wire brushing and other abrasive surface preparations, although chemical and machining methods did not produce any increase in depth of fusion. Abrasive treatments roughen the surface, increase the surface area, increase the surface oxide thickness, and entrap oxide. The increased weld d/w ratio is attributed to oxygen added to the weld pool from the surface oxide on the base metal. The added oxygen alters the surface-tension-driven fluid flow pattern in the weld pool. Increased depth of fusion in wire-fed U-groove weld joints also resulted when welding wire with a greater surface oxide thickness was used. Increasing the amount of wire brushing produced even deeper welds. However, a maximum in depth of fusion was observed with further wire brushing, beyond which weld fusion depth decreased.

OSTI ID:
6545562
Journal Information:
Welding Journal (Miami); (United States), Vol. 72:2; ISSN 0043-2296
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English