Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Inconel 625 Overlay Welded by Pulsed TIG Process

To coordinate the material cost and corrosion resistance of the components served in corrosive environment, Inconel 625 was cladded over the AISI 4130 steel using pulsed tungsten insert gas welding (TIG). The microstructure and corrosion resistance of the Inconel 625 overlay was investigated. The Inconel 625 overlay is mainly composed of gamma-Ni matrix and laves precipitate. Increasing layer of the overlay is benefit to reduce the compositions dilution. The content of Fe in the second layer overlay is only about 2%. The Nyquist plot of the substrate shows a capacitive loop with a diffusion tail, while that of the Inconel 625 overlay are composed of single capacitive loop. The tested surface near the upper surface of the second layer overlay shows the least charge transfer resistance, but which below the middle surface of the second layer overlay features the largest charge transfer resistance compared with others. The passivation behavior of the Inconel 625 overlay below the middle surface of the second overlay is more stable than others. The specimen near and below the middle surface of the second overlay indicates more outstanding comprehensive pitting corrosion resistance than others. Additionally, seriously uniform corrosion occurred at the specimen of the single layer Inconel 625 overlay. There is no pitting corrosion on the specimens located the second layer of Inconel 625 overlay. Those demonstrated that two layers Inconel 625 overlay can efficiency protect the substrate from corrosion.

Automated summary

The Inconel 625 overlay on AISI 4130 steel, achieved through pulsed tungsten insert gas welding, demonstrates efficient corrosion protection. The second layer of the overlay shows better stability and superior corrosion resistance compared to others.