Microstructure and Properties of Welds of Semi-Austenitic Precipitation Hardening Stainlees Steel after Heat Treatment

Abstract

This paper presents the studies of the microstructure and properties of the welded joints made of 15-7Mo precipitation hardened semi-austenitic stainless steel welded by Tungsten Inert Gas. Microstructural changes in the heat treated welded joints was assessed. It was found that the joints of 15-7Mo steel in as welded state contain martensite, austenite and δ-ferrite. Scanning electron microscope study of the joints was carried out. The sub-zero and destabilization heat treatment were found to decrease or completely eliminate the austenite in the microstructure and increase hardness of the welded joint.