Parametric Optimization of Submerged Arc Welding Using L9 Orthogonal Array

Submerged arc welding process is usually employed for welding of thick workpieces. Quality of submerged arc welded components depends on various factors. Selection of appropriate process parameters for joining metallic components is needed to obtain sound weldment. Many researchers carried out investigations to find out appropriate process conditions to obtain quality submerged arc welded components with typical applications. In the present work, Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array is used to find out the parameter combinations of the experiments to perform. Weld current, weld speed and type of flux are varied to three levels to find out the appropriate condition to obtain desired bead-on-plate quality within the domain of experimental conditions chosen. It is found out that at a weld current of 400 A, welding speed of 450 mm/min and with flux with basicity index of 1.2, desired weld deposition can be obtained.