Influence of the surface layer when the CMT process is used for welding steel sheets treated by nitrooxidation

Abstract

Nitrooxidation is a non-conventional surface treatment method that can provide significantly improved mechanical properties as well as corrosion resistance. However, the surface layer is a major problem during the welding process, and welding specialists face many problems regarding the weldability of steel sheets. This paper deals with the properties of a nitrooxidized surface layer, and evaluates ways of welding steel sheets treated by nitrooxidation using a Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) process. The limited heat input and the controlled metal transfer, which are considered as the main advantage of the CMT process, have a negative impact on weld joint quality. An excessive amount of porosity is observed, probably due to the high content of nitrogen and oxygen in the surface layer of the material and the fast cooling rate of the weld pool.