Weaving technique applied in submerged arc welding process: metallurgical analysis

Weaving amplitude and welding energy were varied in order to investigate the effects of the weaving technique in metallurgical aspects and mechanical properties of welds produced via SAW process. This investigation and subsequent discussion were based on metallographies and Vickers microhardness tests, both performed on the cross section of the weld beads. The application of the weaving technique resulted in metallurgical changes in the Fusion Zones (FZ), indicating grain refinement, for all studied welding energies. A 10 mm weaving amplitude was enough to promote metallurgical changes on the FZ edges, but additional 10 mm were necessary to show proportional changes in the FZ center. In the Vickers microhardness tests, a subtle microhardness increase was observed for a weaving amplitude of 20 mm when compared to the reference sample (no weaving movement applied). The weaving technique applied to the SAW process showed great potential, since it yields superior or, at least, comparable weld beads to those produced via SAW process with no weaving, in metallurgical aspects and mechanical properties, while producing weld beads with typical morphology of welding with weaving.