EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES ON THE SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS OF BIMETALLIC JOINTS INTERFACE FABRICATED THROUGH MICROWAVE IRRADIATION

Abstract

Surface characteristics of dissimilar metal joints interface play a crucial role on its functional performance. In this study, the microstructural, metallurgical and corrosion behavior of the microwave processed and TIG welded bimetallic joints interface surfaces were investigated. Metallurgical and mechanical properties of the joints interface surfaces were studied using SEM/EDS, XRD and microhardness techniques. The hot corrosion behavior study of both joints was carried out at elevated temperature in actual environment of biomass fuel-fired boiler as well as in simulated boiler environment. The after-corrosion behavior of both joints was analyzed using SEM and XRD methods. TIG-welded samples exhibited more loss in weight during both actual and simulated corrosion environments. The depletion of chromium from substrates in the actual corrosion environment proved that chromium is involved in controlling corrosion rates by forming the protective oxides during corrosion cycles.