Micro-segregation studies on the Continuous Nd: YAG Laser Beam Welded AISI 316L

This Experimental research article presents a bead on plate welding of AISI 316L welded with continuous Laser Beam Welding ( LBW). An attempt is made to find a process parameter for a full penetration weld bead profile; with less segregation effect. The experiments were carried out in two sets on an AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel plate ( 200 x 150 x 5 mm). In the first set, trial welds were carried out by keeping the laser speed at 400 mm/min and in the second set; it was kept at 800 mm/min. In both the cases, the laser power was varied from 1000 W, 1500 W and 2000 W. Metallurgical and mechanical characterizations were carried to evaluate the weld beads. Macro and micro structural analysis is carried done to evaluate the bead profile and microstructures. Ferrite content in terms of ferrite number (FN) in the weld zone is evaluated using Fischer Feritscope. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)\Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) was used to characterize the weld beads for segregation effect. Vickers micro hardness test was carried out across the cross section of the weld beads to find the hardness distribution. Better result was obtained for the trial bead with parameter 800 mm/min and 2000W.(C) 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.