Effect of boron on the microstructure of low-carbon steel resistance seam welds

Abstract

Small levels of boron (20--40 wt ppm) in steel were found to have a large influence on the microstructure and hardness of resistance seam welds. The decomposition kinetics of austenite to ferrite were retarded and resulted in the formation of bainitic and martensitic microstructures in the weld metal. The welds with low and high boron concentrations showed large differences in hardness. This microstructure development is in agreement with theoretical calculations of time-temperature-transformation diagrams. This work stresses the importance of considering boron levels in steels on the weld properties.