Characterisation of mechanical property variation across an inertia friction weld of a CrMoV steel

Abstract

The complex thermo-mechanical field which is developed within the components during Inertia Friction Welding (IFW) can cause a wide range of microstructures to be developed in the weld region, which in turn can result in a distribution in the mechanical material properties across the joint This study focuses on methods for characterising the variation in properties in a like-to-like weld between cylinders of a CrMoV steel, including the application of nanoindentaion, in order to provide more accurate material data for use in FE models to improve the prediction of residual stress distribution both after welding, and to aid the assessment of the performance of the weld under in-service conditions.