Rev.Adv.Mater.Sci. (RAMS)
No 2, Vol. 44, 2016, pages 146-159

DISSIMILAR HIGH-STRENGTH STEELS: FUSION WELDED JOINTS, MISMATCHES, AND CHALLENGES

B. Mvola, P. Kah, J. Martikainen and R. Suoranta

Abstract

One of the major obstacles to the use of conventional steels in higher height infrastructure has been their weight. The demand for materials with a good ratio of high strength and light weight has arisen from new challenges inherent in changed working conditions and environments. In recent years, conventional steels have been successfully welded to high-strength steels (HSS). It is expected that demand for dissimilar welding of HSS will grow because of the characteristics of HSS and its diversity.

The objectives of this study are to develop a framework for dissimilar high-strength metal welding compatibilities and to provide suitable welding procedure specifications necessary to achieve acceptable weld quality and flawless joints. In addition, the study takes into consideration the effect of high-strength steel manufacturing techniques on welding properties.

The methods comprise an experimental review of scientific papers based on dissimilar metal welding experiments of high-strength steels and an analysis of the properties of different HSS grades, and the paper suggests different combinations of steels, electrode selection, welding processes and suitable heat treatments.

The results show that dissimilar high-strength steels provide better mechanical joint properties with higher impact toughness resistance and better ductile-to-brittle transition. The corrosion resistance of the heat-affected zone and the weld depend on the alloy elements and the manufacturing of the base metal.

Due to their diversity, dissimilar high-strength steels offer advantages in demanding applications such as industrial applications for nuclear plants, equipment operating in challenging environments, higher amplitude lifting devices and sustainable energy production.

full paper (pdf, 1776 Kb)