A Process Model for the Heat-Affected Zone Microstructure Evolution in Duplex Stainless Steel Weldments: Part II. Application to Electron Beam Welding

摘要

In the present investigation, a process model forelectron beam (EB) welding of different grades of duplex stainlesssteels (i.e. SAF 2205 and 2507) has been developed. A number ofattractive features are built into the original finite element code,including (1) a separate module for prediction of the penetrationdepth and distribution of the heat source into the plate, (2)adaptive refinement of the three-dimensional (3-D) element meshfor quick and reliable solution of the differential heat flowequation, and (3) special subroutines for calculation of the heat-affected zone (RAZ) microstructure evolution. The process modelhas been validated by comparison with experimental data obtainedfrom in situ thermocouple measurements and optical microscopeexaminations. Subsequently, its aptness to alloy design andoptimization of welding conditions for duplex stainless steels isillustrated in different numerical examples and case studiespertaining to EB welding of tubular joints.