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The construction industry has for many years shown interest in
opportunities offered by the welding of dissimilar metals. The need for appropriate
and effective techniques has increased in recent decades with efforts to meet wide
disparities constraints in services. In power plants, metals with different
characteristics can be welded to fit heterogeneous working conditions. Early GMAW
processes had limited control over the heat input, but the advanced GMAW processes
of the last decades offer new perspectives for welding dissimilar metals. The objective of this paper is to review the basic principles of fusion welding of dissimilar metals. The study briefly investigates advanced GMAW processes with an emphasis on differences in their general operating principles and arc control. Experiments performed with dissimilar metals, such as stainless steels, carbon steels, and low-alloyed steels are reviewed and the welding process achievements highlighted. The study collects data from scientific literature on fusion dissimilar metals welding (DMW), advanced GMAW processes, and experiments conducted with conventional GMAW. The study shows that the welding procedure specification is an important factor in DMW. Advanced GMAW processes have significant potential in fusion welding of dissimilar ferrous metals. Accurate control of the heat input allows a more effective prediction of intermetallics and a better control of post-heat treatments. Increased understanding of advanced processes will permit the development of more suitable specifications of GMAW welding procedures for DMW. Process flexibility and adaptability to robotic mass production will allow a wider application of this process and the avoidance of costly alternative methods. |
full paper (pdf, 1648 Kb)