Microstructure characterization and mechanical properties of electron beam welded joints of WRe alloy and CoCrFeNi high entropy alloys

Abstract

In this study, vacuum electron beam welding was performed on WRe/CoCrFeNi alloy, resulting in joint interfaces resembling brazing. The research primarily focused on microstructure, phase composition, grain orientation and texture, interface bonding characteristics, mechanical properties, and fracture mechanisms of the welded joints. The weld zone consisted of columnar, cellular, and equiaxed regions, influenced by solidification rate. Employing the PHACOMP method, it is predicted that the introduction of W element in the weld zone tends to precipitate the FCC phase into the μ-phase. Grain competition during weld growth led to differences in grain orientation. A strong cubic texture {001} <100> was observed in the weld, enhancing its ductility. The impact of Kirkendall voids and IMCs on the bonding at the WRe/WZ interface was discussed. Microhardness of the weld increased due to grain refinement and precipitation strengthening. The joint exhibited a tensile strength of 189 MPa and an elongation of 10 %, with a fracture mechanism characterized by interface brittle fracture and fusion zone ductile fracture. The interface fracture was attributed to Kirkendall voids, IMCs, and significant residual stresses induced by material CTE mismatch. Furthermore, deep dimples and slip bands on cleavage planes at the fracture surface bottom, along with low-angle grain boundaries promoting localized slip, indicated good plasticity in the fusion zone.