Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Plasma Arc Welded Joints Made of Austenitic Steel

The tests discussed in the article aimed to analyse the microstructure and properties of plasma arc-welded joints (process 15) used in tests concerning welding procedure approval. The material subjected to the tests was austenitic steel X5CrNi18-10, belonging to a group of structural materials characterised by special properties (high corrosion resistance, favourable mechanical properties and good weldability). Because of its advantages, the steel is used in many industrial sectors and joined using various welding techniques. The article presents results obtained using the plasma arc welding process (PAW), which, due to its advantages, enjoys growing popularity in many industries. The test joints were subjected to macro and microscopic metallographic tests, mechanical tests (tensile tests, bend tests and hardness measurements) and diffraction tests.