Metallographic Study of Overlapped Laser Welds of Dissimilar Materials

Abstract

The paper deals with the metallographic analysis of overlapped laser welds of dissimilar materials based on galvanized and ungalvanized steels in various combinations. In addition to a gallery of metallographic sections, the paper presents the monitoring of weld defects, the measurement of selected weld geometrical characteristics and changes in weld microstructure by measuring the microhardness profile across the joint. The mixing of materials was monitored by area and line EDX analysis in the melting zone. Subsequently, the load carrying capacity of the formed joints was determined and compared with FEM simulation. Finally, the dependences of hardness and strength of welds on carbon content and carbon equivalent were determined.