Particle-reinforced metal matrix composite as a weld deposit

Abstract

Weld metal consisting of particulate-reinforced metal matrix composite structure was produced with ceramic or refractory metal powder filled cored wire. Results are presented for both gas tungsten arc and gas metal arc weldments on Type 304 stainless steel. The effect of powder particle density and size distribution on the dispersion of particulates in the weld deposit was investigated. The motion and final distribution of particulates in the weld pool were evaluated with a fluid mechanics-based model, and critical welding criteria for the production of uniform particle distributions were identified. With particulates of optimum size and density in powder-filled cored wire it was possible to produce arc welding particulate-reinforced metal matrix weld deposits having uniform spatial particle distributions.