Influence of Heat Input on Cold Metal Transfer Welded Joints

Abstract

ABSTRACT During welding, the heat input is a critical parameter in determining the quality of the joints welded by any welding process. In the case of dissimilar welding, as dissimilar metals have significant differences in melting point, it is challenging to achieve an adequate joint. The emerging cold metal transfer welding process can resolve it effectively by controlling the heat while joining dissimilar metals. Therefore, in this research work, Aluminum-galvanized steel dissimilar joints were fabricated using varying heat inputs and their mechanical, metallurgical, and corrosion properties were evaluated. Furthermore, the second-phase formation at the weld interface has been investigated, and corrosion behavior is analyzed using electrochemical techniques in a 0.1% sodium chloride environment. The Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies reveal it improved corrosion resistance due to an increase in heat input. The reduced solidification defects and the establishment of an appropriate intermetallic layer thickness with a suitable microstructure at the interface are the reasons for the improved corrosion resistance and strength of the dissimilar joints.