Element distribution in lean duplex stainless steel welds

Segregation of alloying elements and nitrogen loss may have a negative effect on the corrosion resistance of autogenously welded duplex stainless steel. The lean duplex LDX 2101® (EN 1.4162, UNS S32101) has less metal element segregation and improved austenite formation compared to other duplex grades and addition of filler metal is not always necessary to achieve good corrosion properties. In gas tungsten arc welding, nitrogen additions to the shielding gas can counteract nitrogen loss and thereby contribute to achievement of the required phase balance. The element distribution in S32101 welds performed autogenously bead-on-plate with and without nitrogen additions to the shielding gas has been quantified and illustrated with electron probe microanalysis mapping. Local segregation and depletion along the fusion line have been elucidated and explained in terms of epitaxial growth and dendritic solidification behavior. The resulting variations in the corrosion resistance are demonstrated by the pitting resistance equivalent distribution and compared to previously known corrosion data.