Weldability of class 2 armor steel using gas tungsten arc welding

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, microstructural and mechanical evaluations of class 2 armor steel after single-pass and pre-heated/single-pass welding were investigated to reveal the effect of pre-heating on heat affected zone (HAZ) in thin armor steel parts. Design/methodology/approach: In this research, class 2 armor steel parts were welded using single-pass and pre-heated/single-pass conditions to examine optimal welding parameters in relatively thin parts. Welded specimens were investigated using optical microscopy and Vickers hardness tests. Optical micrography was used to characterise transition sites of base metal, HAZ and weld zone. Hardness test was conducted to characterise homogeneity of welding in terms of mechanical properties. Findings: The results have shown that pre-heat/single-pass welding of armor steel could provide homogeneous hardness distribution along welding region. Similar microstructures and mechanical properties were found in base metal and HAZ. Practical implications: Armor steel was succesfully welded using GTAW without any defects either in weld seam or HAZ. Originality/value: Weldability of class 2 armor steel using gas tungsten acr welding was investigated.