Investigation of mechanical properties and characterization of a joint using nano flux powder for a-tig welding

Abstract

Activated-Flux Tungsten Inert Gas welding is a relatively new method used in joining metals together, it was invented with the aim of improving on the various shortcomings of TIG welding. A-TIG process does this using chemical compounds called fluxes which leads to an enhancement in the properties of the weld and an increment in the weld depth. Test for mechanical properties such as hardness, microstructure and tensile tests were conducted on A-TIG welding using the developed Nano-flux (FeO), control flux (Easy-Flo powder) and welding without flux. The results show clearly that the developed Nano-flux (FeO) performed better in terms of ability to withstand load when compared to A-TIG welding using control flux, and A-TIG welding without flux. The weld produced using the Nano- flux was found to be ductile having a higher maximum tensile strength and increased ability to withstand higher loads when compared to the welds created using the control flux powder and those produced without using any flux powder. The grain structure in weld created using developed flux for A-TIG were better ordered when compared to others.