Studies on the weldability, microstructure and mechanical properties of activated flux TIG weldments of Inconel 718

This research article addresses the joining of 5mm thick plates of Inconel 718 by activated flux tungsten inert gas (A-TIG) welding process using SiO2 and TiO2 fluxes. Microstructure studies inferred the presence of Nb rich eutectics and/or laves phase in the fusion zone of the A-TIG weldments. Tensile studies corroborated that the ultimate tensile strength of TiO2 flux assisted weldments (885MPa) was better compared to SiO2 flux assisted weldments (815MPa) and the failure was observed in the parent metal for both the cases. Impact test results portrayed that both the weldments were inferior in toughness as compared to the parent metal, which was due to the presence of oxide inclusions. Also, the study investigated the structure–property relationships of the A-TIG weldments of Inconel 718.