The Effect of Smaw Welding Currents on Mechanical Properties and Micro Structures of Low Carbon Steels

Abstract

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is one of the most widely used types of electric arc welding. The mechanical properties of the welded joints produced are influenced by various factors. This study aims to determine the effect of the magnitude of the welding current on the mechanical properties and physical properties of the SMAW weld joints. The base metal material used in this study was SA 516 Gr. 70 with 3 strong variations of welding current, i.e.: 50A, 60A and 70A. The electrode used for root is E7016 while for filler and cap is E7018 which is 2.6 mm in diameter with climbing (vertical) welding position. From the results of the charpy impact test and the Vickers hardness test, the best is obtained in specimens with welding current strength of 70A. While the results of the microstructure analysis showed that the grain size of specimens with welding current of 50A and 60A was finer than the specimens with a 70A welding current.