LAUSR

This research investigation articulates the joining of AISI 316 L austenitic stainless steel plates of thickness 5 mm by activated tungsten inert gas (A-TIG) welding. Prior to the welding, the optimization of process parameters and the selection of suitable flux have been carried out to join the plates in a single pass welding. The experimental results show that the complete weld penetration can be achieved by using activating flux. The microscopic study divulges the presence of delta ferrite, sigma phase and various forms of austenite in the weld zone. Fischer Feritscope result indicates that the delta ferrite content in the weld is higher (7.8 FN) than the base metal (1.3 FN) which results in superior mechanical properties of the weld. Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) fractography reveals that the failure of weldments occurs in ductile mode. 180° bend test study reveals the good ductility of the joint.