Analysis of the Influence of GMAW Process Parameters on the Properties and Microstructure of S32001 Steel

The properties of duplex steels can be seriously affected when welding processes are performed on them. Duplex S32001 is a recent development, so there is very little published information on its behavior after a welding process. For this reason, the present article determines how the main welding parameters of the GMAW process influence its mechanical and microstructural properties. From this study, it was determined that the parameter W/m³ best defines the phase balance in the bead due to the values involved. In the HAZ, this parameter is the t_12/8. The welding parameters that are used determine the bead dimensions and geometry. These dimensions induce differences in the distribution of heat in the material. For this reason, the thermal cycles undergone by the material vary and, consequently, in the phase balance obtained. A theoretical study of the chemical composition in the bead, through dilution, and in the HAZ, through diffusion, was carried out. A mathematical model was developed that allows the variation of the composition in the HAZ that induces diffusion to be determined.