Investigation on the Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of High Carbon Steel Friction Welded Joint

Abstract

In this study, we aim to investigate the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties in friction welded joints of high carbon S45C steel. Thus far, S45C steel was welded with structural steel containing 0.3 wt.%C using friction welding. The microstructures in a friction welded joint were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron back-scattered diffraction analyses, and then compared to the microstructures of CO₂ arc welded S45C welds. The mechanical properties of joints welded using friction and CO₂ arc welding were evaluated through impact tests and Vickers hardness tests. The microstructural changes, based on the welding process, were analyzed carefully in terms of chemical composition and strain condition in welds. Finally, the relationship between microstructures and mechanical properties in welds was discussed.