Influence of IP-TIG welding parameters on weld bead geometry, tensile properties, and microstructure of Ti6Al4V alloy joints

Abstract

Abstract The primary aim of this study is to analyze the influence of inter-pulse tungsten inert gas (IP-TIG) welding parameters (peak current, inter-pulse current, and inter-pulse frequency) on weld bead geometry, tensile properties, and microstructure of Ti6Al4V alloy joints for gas turbine applications. IP-TIG welding principally featured by magnetic arc constriction and pulsing was employed to overcome the high heat input problems in TIG welding of thin Ti6Al4V alloy sheets such as wider bead and HAZ, coarsening of beta grains, inferior ductility, distortion of joints, and atmospheric contamination which significantly deteriorates the mechanical performance of welded sheets. The tensile properties and microhardness of IP-TIG joints were evaluated and correlated to the microstructural features. The microstructural features were analyzed using optical microscopy. The fractured surfaces of tensile specimens were studied using scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that the Ti6Al4V alloy joints developed using peak current of 50 A, inter-pulse current of 30 A, and inter-pulse frequency of 20 kHz exhibited greater strength, hardness and elongation. It showed greater tensile strength of 1030 MPa, yield strength of 981 MPa, and elongation of 10 % and FZ microhardness of 391 HV0.2. It is mainly due to the development of refined grains in fusion zone (FZ).