Ameliorative Corrosion Resistance and Microstructure Characterization of 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel by Regulating the Parameters of Pulsed Nd:YAG Laser Beam Welding

Welding parameters can greatly affect the final product. In this study, there was a variation given on the pulse energy, i.e., heat input parameters. The microstructure was analyzed and presented in relation to the efficiency of corrosion. The microstructural study showed the changes of the fusion zone (FZ) and the heat-affected zone (HAZ) with an increase in pulse energy. The development of a prominent austenite process on the weld material had a prolonged effect on its corrosion resistance property. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic measurements were used to test the electrochemical activity of laser-weld 2205 duplex stainless steel in an aqueous 3.5% NaCl solution. Finally, the findings of the EIS analysis were supported by Raman spectroscopy. Based on the obtained results, the 2205 duplex stainless steel (DSS) weld obtained at a higher pulse energy showed higher corrosion resistance than the welded sample obtained at a low pulse energy. The impedance spectroscopy confirmed a smooth surface property with an increase in the pulse energy and the presence of an oxide layer, a finding also confirmed by the Raman spectroscopy measurements.

Automated summary

In this study, variations in pulse energy were found to affect the microstructure and corrosion efficiency of a weld. Increasing pulse energy led to changes in the fusion zone and heat-affected zone, with a notable increase in the corrosion resistance of the weld material. Electrochemical tests and spectroscopy confirmed these findings, showcasing improved corrosion resistance with higher pulse energies and the presence of an oxide layer on the surface.