Investigation on microstructure and mechanical properties of 160mm thick 316L stainless steel electron-beam-welded joint

•The optimized parameters of electron beam welding has achieved one-time penetration of 160 mm thick plate without opening grooves and with a small welding deformation.•The difference of weld microstructure along the depth and width direction was analyzed by electron backscatter diffraction.•The difference of weld mechanical properties along the thickness direction was also analyzed and the relationship between microstructure and performance was investigated.