Effect of welding parameters on mechanical and microstructural properties of GMAW and SMAW mild steel joints

Abstract

This work describes welding of the sheets with different thickness values and then characterizing the mechanical and microstructural properties for two different types of welding i.e. GMAW and SMAW. The joints are devised in such pattern that the effect of sheet thickness and welding current on these properties can be easily assessed. Initial microstructural studies are carried out with high-resolution optical microscopy and SEM. These images are then processed in ImageJ software to analyze various properties of different phases involved. Mechanical properties like the tensile strength, microhardness, impact energy or toughness are also measured and correlated with the microstructures and welding parameters. The main aim of this project is to design new set of welding parameters for structural steels that are used widely in different construction works and industries. Optimizing the results and choosing the best possible way to get superior properties are the key points.