Enhancing Strength and Toughness of HSLA Steel Welds through Microalloying with Titanium and Vanadium Addition

Abstract

The study aims to improve the strength, and the toughness of the welding zone of high strength low alloy steel (HSLA) by adding microalloying elements, titanium, and vanadium via tungsten inert gas torch technique. The melting was carried out using powder preplacement procedure with the welding variables of current, 80-100A and voltage, 30-40V. Experimental results showed that Ti and V elements play an important role on the heat affected zone hardness, impact toughness and tensile strength of HSLA steel. Furthermore, a maximum ultimate tensile strength of 693 MPa and 730 MPa were achieved with Ti and V addition respectively. The reduction in HAZ hardness values with Ti and V addition was 15% and 19% respectively, compared to base material, thereby reducing the risk of brittle fracture.