Microstructural analysis of SMAW process for joining stainless steel 304 with mild steel 1018 and parametric optimization by using response surface methodology

Abstract

In this work, focus is given on analyzing the effect of various input parameter such as welding current, welding speed, electrode angle and root gap on performance parameter such as welding strength, metal deposition rate and microstructure while joining stainless steel 304 with Mild steel 1018 by using Manual (Shielded) metal arc welding. Major problem while joining SS 304 with MS is carbon transfer from higher carbon containing mild steel to the SS304 which result in carbide precipitation near the heat affected zone which may result in service failure of welded joint. With welding current of 85 A, welding speed 8 mm/sec, electrode angle 30° and root gap 0.75 mm, we get welding strength 403 N/mm 2 , Metal deposition rate 9.3 gms and microstructure containing less dendrites of carbide precipitation.