Effect of the temperature gradient on hot cracking susceptibility for electron beam welding Alloy 247 LC

Conventionally cast Alloy 247 LC is characterized by good creep rupture strength and corrosion resistance at high temperatures and is therefore frequently used for cast components in the aero-engine and power generation industries. From a welding technology point of view, the precipitation-hardening nickel-based alloy has an increased susceptibility to hot cracking. Due to its high segregation tendency and its gamma' precipitation formation, the material is even classified as non-weldable. However, electron beam welding in a vacuum as the method of choice for joining and repairing nickel-based components in industrial practice, provides a variable beam welding process with high energy density. This allows varied temperature gradients to be implemented. In this paper, results of welding parameter optimization with regard to hot crack reduction are presented. For this purpose, a comprehensive crack analysis was carried out using scanning electron microscopy, metallography and X-ray microtomography and was then compared with the temperature gradient along the fusion line. Two hot cracking phenomena were identified and differentiated. Thereby, a clear dependence between temperature gradient and crack reduction becomes obvious.