Development of the PC-GMAW welding technology for TMCP steel in accordance with welding thermal cycle, welding technique, structure, and properties of welded joints

Abstract

In this paper, the effect of the welding thermal cycle (WTC) on the structure and properties of the S460M steel heat affected zone (HAZ) metal has been studied. In particular, the changes in the mechanical properties vs the HAZ metal cooling rate in the 600÷500 °C temperature range was studied for S460M model samples, heat-treated in accordance with WTCs. The results from the experimental data refers to the static strength, ductility, and impact toughness values at the level of the base metal, as well as to structural changes in the seam. The weld metal and HAZ welded joints of S460M steel, made by pulsed arc welding, have shown adequately high resistance to brittle fracture, and at 20% greater strength. Thus, based on the obtained results, it is recommended to apply pulse-current gas metal welding of the thermo-mechanical cold processingsteel instead of conventional welding.