Computer Prediction of Phase Fraction in Multipass Weld of Duplex Stainless Steel - Proposal of Microstructural Improvement Welding Process -

Abstract

Computer simulation of the α/γ phase transformation in multipass weld of duplex stainless steel was made for predicting the distribution of the γ phase fraction in the weld metal (WM) and HAZ. The kinetic equations including rate constants of the dissolution behaviour as well as precipitation behaviour of γ phase were determined by isothermal heat treatment test. Based on the kinetic equations determined, the distribution of the γ phase fraction in multipass weld of duplex stainless steel was calculated applying the incremental method combined with the heat conduction analysis in welding process. The γ phase fraction was reduced in the higher temperature HAZ and WM, however, that in the reheated HAZ and WM was increased and recovered to the base metal level. Microstructural analysis revealed that the calculated results of the γ phase fraction in multipass weld were consistent with experimental ones. Based on the computer prediction, the microstructural improvement welding (“reheat bead welding”) process, with analogous concept to the temper bead welding technique, was newly proposed for recovering the γ phase fraction in weld even in the as-welded situation.