Optimization of recycled slag-fresh flux mixture based upon weld bead quality for submerged arc welding of stainless steel

Abstract

Submerged arc welding (SAW) has been performed using slag-fresh flux mixture on duplex stainless steel plates. Experiments were performed by recycled slag-fresh flux mixtures with iron powder; iron powder is mixed to maintain and enhance the weld strength. The effect of composition variation of slag-fresh flux mixture on weld bead geometry parameters have been investigated quantitatively. Weld bead characteristics viz. bead width; bead height; penetration area; reinforcement area, form factor and dilution were observed by metallography operations for each experiment. For varying the composition of slag-fresh flux mixture, mixture design technique; Scheffe Quadratic Model (SQM) was used. Empirical relations were developed for weld bead characteristics in terms of fresh flux, slag and iron powder and statistically checked for significance. Finally, recycled slag-fresh flux composition was optimized using desirability approach.

Keywords

• duplex steel
• recycled slag
• scheffe quadratic model
• weld bead quality