Fundamental Prediction of Steel Weld Metal Properties

Abstract

Empirically derived expressions are commonly used to predict specific steel weldment properties. These expressions usually consider only constitutional considerations and are limited to their ability to predict the influence of the thermal experience (heat input, weld preparation, and plate thickness). Carbon equivalent and basicity index are examples of such predictive expressions. This paper reviews some of the existing expressional forms and introduces new functional forms that are based on metallurgical engineering concepts. Forms for equations which can predict weld metal properties and behavior as a function of composition are proposed. Methodology for including cooling rate in the predictive equations is also suggested. The concept of developing iso-property diagrams that allow better selection of welding consumables with variations in heat input is introduced and discussed.