Welding Behaviour of Low Nickel Chrome-Manganese Stainless Steel

Chrome-Manganese steel is relatively new steel as compared to its counterpart 304 series stainless steels. There are relatively few studies on the welding behaviour of low nickel Cr-Mn stainless steel (in particular, on the effect of heat input on the microstructural developments). In the present investigation, a low nickel chrome-manganese stainless steel was welded (shielded metal arc welding process) to see the effect of heat input on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties. At higher heat inputs (404.2 J/mm and 528.1 J/mm), tensile strength and hardness are lower compared to low heat input (316.6 J/mm). Fractographic investigation of the tensile tested specimen revealed dimple-like ductile fracture. An attempt was also made to evaluate the phases incorporated in the investigated steel using Schaeffler diagram.