Exploring the potential of metal-cored filler wire in gas metal arc welding for ASME SA387-Gr.11-Cl.2 steel joints

This study explores the potential benefits of gas metal arc (GMA) welding for ASME SA387-Gr.11-Cl.2 steel, with a focus on ensuring humane and environmentally friendly welding techniques. Metal-cored filler wire (MCFW) was tested on 6 mm thick ASME SA387-Gr.11-Cl.2 steel plates using MEGAFIL 237 M. Current (A), voltage (V), and gas flow rate (GFR) were tuned to get optimal results during welding, which was performed at 100 A, 13 V, and 21 L/min, respectively. Subsequently, visual inspection confirmed the absence of surface defects in the as-welded plates. In addition, macroscopic metallography analysis confirmed the satisfactory weld bead geometry (WBG). Microstructural variations were analyzed using optical microscopy, and microhardness measurements were taken to validate the results. Furthermore, the as-welded plates were heat treated before being examined for microstructure and microhardness. Comparative analysis of microstructure and microhardness values showed that the weld zone of as-welded plates exhibited a lanky martensitic configuration, while the heat-treated plates demonstrated a finer and more irregular distribution of the unaltered martensitic structure. These findings were further supported by respective hardness values of 1887.4 HV and 262.4 HV for the as-welded and heat-treated plates. By exploring the optimized use of metal-cored filler wire in GMA welding for ASME SA387-Gr.11-Cl.2 steel, this research aims to achieve welding practices that meet both technical requirements and environmental considerations, ensuring a humane approach to welding processes.