skip to main content
OSTI.GOV title logo U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Title: Surface preparation effects on GTA (gas tungsten arc) weld penetration in JBK-75 stainless steel

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6049476

The results of a study are reported here on the effects of surface preparation on the shape of GTA welds on JBK-75, an austenitic precipitation hardenable stainless steel similar to A286. Minor changes in surface (weld groove) preparation produced substantial changes in the penetration characteristics and welding behavior of this alloy. Increased and more consistent weld penetration (higher d/w ratios) along with improved arc stability and less arc wander result from wire brushing and other abrasive surface preparations, although chemical and machining methods did not produce any improvement in penetration. Abrasive treatments roughen the surface, increase the surface area, and increase the surface oxide thickness. 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. Similar results were observed with changes in filler wire surface oxide thickness, caused by changes in wire production conditions. 15 refs., 14 figs., 4 tabs.

Research Organization:
EG and G Rocky Flats, Inc., Golden, CO (USA). Rocky Flats Plant
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE/DP
DOE Contract Number:
AC34-90DP62349
OSTI ID:
6049476
Report Number(s):
RFP-4453; CONF-8904400-1; ON: DE91006965
Resource Relation:
Conference: 70. annual American Welding Society (AWS) meeting, Washington, DC (USA), 2-7 Apr 1989
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English