The effect of laser offset welding on microstructure and mechanical properties of 301L to TA2 with and without Cu intermediate layer

Abstract

Based on dissimilar materials of 301L/TA2, the effect of laser offset and copper intermediate layer on welded joints was investigated. First, the process optimization of laser offsets indicated that the tensile strength of welded joint without intermediate layer was reached to the highest value when the laser was applied on the TA2 side. On the other hand, the tensile strength of welded joint with intermediate layer performed well when laser was applied in the middle position. Then, microstructural characterization and mechanical properties of welded joints were observed and tested. Based on eutectic reaction and peritectic reaction: TiFe and TiFe2 compounds were produced for welded joint without intermediate layer. Cu-Fe solid solutions and Cu-Ti compounds were generated when copper was used as the intermediate layer. The maximum tensile strength of welded joint with and without copper intermediate layer were 396 and 193 MPa, respectively. Finally, fracture mechanism of 301L/TA2 welded joint was studied: Fe-Ti compounds caused brittle fracture of welded joints without intermediate layer; brittle fracture took place in rich copper and Cu-Ti compounds area of welded joints with copper intermediate layer.