Laser welding of stainless steel to titanium using explosively welded composite inserts

In paper, weld joints between VT1-0 titanium and AISI 321 austenitic stainless steel using laser welding were obtained. To improve the quality and strength properties of joints, two types (SS–Cu–Nb/Ta–Ti) of explosively welded four-layered composite inserts were used. Barrier layers were different from each other by refractory metal. The effect of intermediate material inserts, in particular tantalum and niobium, on microstructure, chemical composition, strength properties, and fracture behaviour of weld joints was studied. Microstructural studies have revealed two bonding types as results of welding method combination. At copper–stainless steel interface, severely deformed zone characterized by low etch ability was observed. Technological parameter’s optimization provided high joint quality and absence of defects in the weld joints. According to results of strength tests, it was found that the composite insert material affects the strength of the joints. The highest ultimate tensile strength and yield strength were detected for joints containing niobium foil.