Physical simulations of heat-affected zone microstructures to compare weldability characteristics of additively manufactured and wrought 17-4 stainless steel

Microstructure and behavior of parts fabricated via additive manufacturing (AM) usually differ from their conventionally manufactured counterparts. In an effort to further study such differences, this paper is concerned with comparing weldability characteristics AM wrought materials, for integration replacement into legacy systems. A Gleeble 1500 was used simulate the heat affected zone (HAZ) generated during fusion welding. Weldability as-built samples 17-4 stainless steel (SS) compared that (Condition A) SS samples. Furthermore, were powders atomized in nitrogen gas argon evaluate whether differences initial powder feedstock would affect weldability. X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) employed characterize microstructures. Results show both made after HAZ simulations contain large concentrations undesirable delta-ferrite phase, which known deteriorate toughness material. contrast, no delta-ferrite. The absence a consequence additional picked up atomization process. Nitrogen promotes growth austenite suppresses at high temperatures. These findings reveal may be better choice than 17–4 if part intended installed or repaired