Electron Beam Welding – Dissimilar Joints of Steels and Nickel Alloys

Because of differences in physical and chemical properties of materials being joined as well as due to phenomena such as the formation of intermetallic phases, the making of dissimilar joints poses significant problems for the welding industry. Owing to its high power density, achievable high welding rates and the possibility of obtaining high metallurgical purity, electron beam welding is one of the most suitable methods enabling the reduction of adverse phenomena taking place during the welding of dissimilar joints. The research work discussed in the paper involved the making of joints using steel grades 25HM and 304 with nickel alloy (Inconel 600) and the performance of metallographic tests, tensile tests, bend test and hardness measurements. The electron beam welding method used to the make welded joints discussed in the paper meets the criteria specified in the PN-EN ISO 15614-11 standard.