Plasma Arc Welding of AISI316Ti (EN 1.4571) Stainless Steel: Mechanical, Microstructural, Corrosion Aspects

Abstract

Abstract AISI316Ti (EN1.4571) austenitic stainless steel plates with a thickness of 7 mm were welded by plasma arc welding (PAW) process. Joints were obtained using 316L type of filler metal as well as without filler metal called as Weld 1 and Weld 2, respectively. Tensile and bend testing of the joints were carried out. Impact toughness tests carried out at temperatures from 20 °C down to −60 °C have shown encouraging results. Chemical analysis of the weld deposits were made by glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (GDOES). Photomacrographs and photomicrographs of the cross-sections were used to determine ferrite content and hardness. Intergranular corrosion tests in accordance with TSEN 3157/ENISO 3651-2 were carried out. No corrosion sign was reported. The effect of the consumable has the most influence on the toughness properties. Promising mechanical, toughness and corrosion results are useful, considering the implementation of an innovative process, thus PAW of 316Ti stainless steel.