In the relentless pursuit of durability and efficiency, the construction and energy sectors are increasingly turning to high-strength steels for critical components like demolition shears. However, welding these materials presents unique challenges, as the heat from the process can significantly alter the base material’s properties. A groundbreaking study led by Ákos Meilinger from the Institute of Material Science and Technology at the University of Miskolc in Hungary sheds new light on how to optimize hardfacing techniques for these demanding applications.
Meilinger and his team focused on two high-strength steels, S690QL and S960QL, which are commonly used in heavy-duty equipment. The researchers investigated how different heat inputs during robotized hardfacing affect the impact properties of these materials. Their findings, published in the Journal of Advanced Joining Processes, reveal crucial insights that could revolutionize the way we approach welding and hardfacing in the energy sector.
The study found that the impact resistance of S690QL decreases with higher heat input and penetration depth. However, S960QL exhibited a different behavior: the lowest heat input caused a remarkable 226% increase in impact energy compared to the base material. “This unexpected result highlights the complex interplay between heat input and material properties,” Meilinger explained. “Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the right substrate and hardfacing technology for specific loading conditions.”
The researchers used instrumented impact tests and surface fractography to analyze the data. They discovered that the heat-affected zone can either enhance or diminish the material’s impact resistance, depending on the heat input and the type of steel. For S960QL, the heat-affected zone had a positive effect, increasing the impact energy significantly. In contrast, S690QL showed better performance under higher heat inputs, but only in terms of maximum impact force.
These findings have significant implications for the energy sector, where equipment often operates under extreme conditions. By optimizing the hardfacing process, companies can enhance the durability and reliability of their equipment, leading to reduced downtime and maintenance costs. “This research provides a roadmap for tailoring hardfacing techniques to specific materials and applications,” Meilinger said. “It’s a step towards more efficient and reliable equipment in the energy sector.”
The study also underscores the importance of robotized hardfacing, which creates precise and uniform layers. This precision allows for more accurate comparisons and better control over the material properties. As the energy sector continues to demand more from its equipment, innovations like these will be crucial in meeting those demands.
The research published in the Journal of Advanced Joining Processes, which translates to the Journal of Advanced Welding Processes, opens up new avenues for exploration. Future developments may focus on expanding these findings to other high-strength steels and exploring the effects of different hardfacing materials. As the industry continues to evolve, so too will the techniques used to ensure the longevity and performance of critical components. This study is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry in driving progress and innovation in the construction and energy sectors.