Hot Cracking Mechanisms in Welding Metallurgy: A Review of Theoretical Approaches

Abstract

Hot cracking often refers to the appearance of liquid films along grain boundaries or to another place in the weld metal structure. Despite hot cracking importance in alloy weldability, there is limited understanding of the influencing mechanisms. Theories and criteria worked out over the years to assess alloy weldability will be presented. The review focuses on: 1) Theories of hot cracking, 2) Hot cracking criteria, and 3) A criticism of hot cracking theories and criteria.