Influence of magnetically constricted arc traverse speed (MCATS) on tensile properties and microstructural characteristics of welded Inconel 718 alloy sheets

The magnetically constricted arc technique was implemented to mitigate the heat input related metal-lurgical problems in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) of Inconel 718 alloy particularly Nb segregation and subsequent laves phase evolution in fusion zone. This paper reports the direct effect of magnetically constricted arc traverse speed (MCATS) on bead profile, tensile properties and microstructural evolution of Inconel 718 alloy sheets joined by Gas Tungsten Constricted Arc Welding (GTCAW) process. The mechanism amenable for the microstructural modification and corresponding influence on the tensile properties of joints is investigated both in qualitative and quantitative manner related to the mechanics of arc constriction and pulsing. It is correlated to the solidification conditions during welding. The relationship between MCATS and Arc Constriction Current (ACC) was derived. Its interaction effect on the magnetic arc constriction and joint performance was analysed. Results showed that the joints fabricated using CATS of 70 mm/min exhibited superior tensile properties (98.39% of base metal strength with 31.50% elongation). It is attributed to the grain refinement in fusion zone microstructure leading to the evolution of finer, discrete laves phase in interdendritic areas.