Microstructural characterization of dissimilar welds between Incoloy 800H and 321 Austenitic Stainless Steel

In this work, the microstructural character of dissimilar welds between Incoloy 800H and 321 Stainless Steel has been discussed. The microscopic examination of the base metals, fusion zones and interfaces was characterized using an optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed precipitates of Ti (C, N) in the austenitic matrix along the grain boundaries of the base metals. Migration of grain boundaries in the Inconel 82 weld metal was very extensive when compared to Inconel 617 weldment. Epitaxial growth was observed in the 617 weldment which increases the strength and ductility of the weld metal. Unmixed zone near the fusion line between 321 Stainless Steel and Inconel 82 weld metal was identified. From the results, it has been concluded that Inconel 617 filler metal is a preferable choice for the joint between Incoloy 800H and 321 Stainless Steel. •Failure mechanisms produced by dissimilar welding of Incoloy 800H to AISI 321SS•Influence of filler wire on microstructure properties•Contemplative comparisons of metallurgical aspects of these weldments•Microstructure and chemical studies including metallography, SEM–EDS•EDS-line scan study at interface