Estimation of embrittlement during aging of AISI 316 stainless steel TIG welds

Abstract

Weldments of AISI grade 316 stainless steel, having a ferrite content of 4-6% and a variety of nitrogen concentrations were prepared using a modified element implant technique. Charpy impact specimens prepared from these weldments were subjected to a variety of aging treatments. Impact toughness decreases with aging time at all aging temperatures. Nitrogen is found to be beneficial to toughness. An empirical relation connecting the aging temperature, aging time and nitrogen content with toughness has been developed which can be used to estimate the time for embrittlement.