Optimization of Welding Parameters Using Taguchi Method for Submerged Arc Welding On Spiral Pipes

Abstract

Welding input parameters play a very significant role in determining the quality of a weld joint. The joint quality can be defined in terms of properties such as weld-bead geometry, mechanical properties, and distortion. Generally, all welding processes are used with the aim of obtaining a welded joint with the desired weld-bead parameters, excellent mechanical properties with minimum distortion. The Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) process finds wide industrial application due to its easy applicability, high current density and ability to deposit a large amount of weld metal using more than one wire at the same time. It is highly emphasized in manufacturing especially because of its ability to restore worn parts. In order to obtain an efficient joint, several process parameters of SAW need to be studied and precisely selected to improve weld quality. SAW is characterized by a large number of process parameters influencing the performance outputs such as deposition rate, dilution and hardness, which subsequently affect weld quality. An exhaustive literature survey indicates that five control factors, viz., arc current, arc voltage, welding speed, electrode stick-out and preheat temperature, predominantly influence weld quality. In relation to this, an attempt has been made in this study to analyses the effect of process parameters on outputs of welding using the Taguchi method.