Microstructural Evolution and Creep Behavior of the Weld Interface Between 10% Cr Steel and Haynes 282 Filler Metal

Abstract

This study investigated the microstructural evolution of the weld interface and creep fracture behavior of 10% Cr martensitic steel welds using Haynes 282 filler metal. The welded joints were subjected to post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) at temperatures of 738 °C for 4, 8, and 15 h. Creep tests were carried out at 600 °C under stress of 200 MPa. The creep rupture life increased with an increase in holding time for PWHT up to 8 h compared to the as-welded condition. However, when the holding time for PWHT was further increased to 15 h, creep properties (i.e., rupture life and creep strain) decreased considerably, and the failure location was found to shift from the ICHAZ to the weld interface. The microstructural investigation revealed that Type I carbides precipitated at the weld interface and recrystallized grains with Cr depletion were formed near Type I carbides in the partially mixed zone during creep exposure. The creep failure at the weld interface began on the surface and propagated inward through the recrystallized grains of the weld-interface region.