Mechanical Properties of Laser Beam Welded Dissimilar High Strength Steels: 300M and DP 780

Aerospace and automotive industries utilize advanced high strength steels due to their exceptional mechanical strength and ductility. Laser beam welding has shown potential in reducing the melted zone, heat affected zone, and process time for these steels. This study focused on dissimilar welding between DP 780 and 300M steel sheets, commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries, respectively. The aim was to expand the range of possibilities and innovations by enabling the use of these steels in both applications. The study investigated the optimal process parameters, microstructure, and mechanical properties for the laser welding process. It also examined the influence of intercritical quenching and tempering on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the laser welded steels. The materials underwent dilution and different phase transformations due to the welding process and heat treatments, as revealed by microstructural characterization. The weld showed a notable increase in hardness, however without compromising toughness. The fractures during tensile testing occurred in the DP 780 steel, far from the MZ and HAZ. Heat treatments increased ultimate tensile strength, but lowered ductility. Welding affected the fatigue life, especially in the intercritically quenched joint, which showed a quasi-cleavage crack growth mechanism and a decrease in fracture toughness.