Hot-cracking resistivity of dissimilar clads using Inconel 52 and 308L stainless steel on carbon steel

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of a built-up sequence on the hot-cracking resistivity of dissimilar clads. Dissimilar clads of Inconel 52 and austenitic stainless steel (STS) 308L were produced using submerged arc-welding of the carbon steel. Hot-cracking occurred near the fusion boundary when the STS 308L was cladded to the buffer layer of Inconel 52 (STS 308L/Inconel 52 clad). Causative factors were identified as: (i) the wide transition zone in the interface between the dissimilar clads, and (ii) the eutectic-type Laves phase having a high level of S and P contents and a continuous geometry of thin films formed along the grain boundary. Hot cracks did not appear when Inconel 52 was cladded to the buffer layer of 308L stainless steel (Inconel 52/STS 308L clad). Hot-cracking resistivity was significantly improved by forming δ-ferrite in the interfacial boundary for the Inconel 52/STS 308 L clad.