Microstructure, hardness and tensile properties of fusion zone in laser welding of advanced high strength steels

Fusion zone (FZ) of advanced high strength steel welds, with similar and dissimilar combinations, in diode laser welding was characterised in respect to microstructure, microhardness and tensile strength. Average FZ hardness and tensile properties were correlated to the respective microstructure and chemistry. A linear relationship of the FZ hardness with carbon content was observed for all welding combinations; however, carbon equivalent …