Optimization and non-destructive test analysis of SS316L weldments using GTAW

Balaji Chandrakanth,S Ashwin Kumar,R Sathish,S V Abinesh Kumar

doi:10.1590/s1516-14392013005000188

Balaji Chandrakanth, S Ashwin Kumar + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/s1516-14392013005000188

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Abstract

This work aims at optimization and analysis of SS316L weldments using TIG Welding, SS316L is selected over other grades because of its lower carbon content and its weldability properties. The welding parameters are being assessed by means of Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array with varying gas flow, current and bevel angle with the predictions achieved the sample is welded. The level of importance of welding parameters for tensile strength is determined by using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and it was concluded that gas flow played the prominent role and the bevel angle was least contributor. The optimization of power and the gas flow is made analytically so some confirmatory tests were performed to check the efficiency of the predictions found. The Radiography inspection and microstructure test were performed on samples which showed low, medium and high tensile strength in order to view the changes occurred after welding.

Highlights

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), known as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding is a process that produces an electric arc maintained between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the part to be welded[1]
The SS316L with a chemical composition presented in Table 1 was used to conduct the test
The results conclude that the Gas flow has a major impact in affecting the output tensile strength that is desired and the Bevel angle has the least impact in affecting the tensile strength

Summary

Introduction

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), known as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding is a process that produces an electric arc maintained between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the part to be welded[1]. The HeatAffected Zone, the molten metal and the tungsten electrode are shielded from atmospheric contamination by a blanket of inert gas fed through the GTAW torch. Argon and helium are the preferred inert gases in TIG welding and they generally do not react with the metals being joined. The shielding gas serves as a blanket to the weld and excludes the active properties in the surrounding air. The heavier argon is most effective at shielding the arc because helium requires approximately two to three times higher flow rates than argon to provide equal protection[2].

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