In the quest for more durable and efficient materials in the energy sector, a recent study has shed light on the intricate dance between heat input and material performance in cladding processes. The research, led by Samrat Kavishwar from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at G H Raisoni College of Engineering in Nagpur, India, delves into the world of nickel-based clad layers on AISI 316 stainless steel, comparing conventional and advanced arc weld cladding techniques.
The study, published in the journal “Materials Research Express” (which translates to “Materials Research Express” in English), focuses on three distinct cladding methods: tungsten inert gas (TIG), metal inert gas (MIG), and cold metal transfer (CMT). Each technique brings its unique heat input to the table, influencing the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the clad layers.
Kavishwar and his team found that the heat input during the cladding process plays a pivotal role in determining the final properties of the material. “The heat input is like a conductor in an orchestra,” Kavishwar explains, “it sets the tempo and influences the performance of each instrument, or in this case, the properties of the material.”
TIG cladding, with its moderate heat input, created coarse columnar dendrites and extensive carbide precipitation. This resulted in the highest hardness and tensile strength among the three techniques but also led to the poorest corrosion resistance due to chromium depletion. “It’s a trade-off,” Kavishwar notes, “you gain in strength but lose in corrosion resistance.”
On the other hand, MIG cladding, with a higher heat input, produced coarser grains with greater dilution. This method offered a balance between hardness, tensile strength, and corrosion resistance, outperforming TIG in the latter but falling short compared to CMT.
CMT cladding, with the lowest heat input, formed refined cellular dendrites and minimal carbides, leading to superior tensile strength and corrosion resistance, albeit with the lowest hardness. “CMT seems to offer the best of both worlds,” Kavishwar remarks, “but it’s essential to understand that each technique has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice depends on the specific requirements of the application.”
The findings of this study have significant implications for the energy sector, where materials are often subjected to harsh environments and need to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and corrosive conditions. The choice of cladding technique can greatly influence the performance and lifespan of components, impacting the overall efficiency and safety of energy systems.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for advanced materials and innovative cladding techniques is expected to grow. This research provides valuable insights into the behavior of nickel-based clad layers on stainless steel, paving the way for future developments in the field. “Our goal is to contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve material performance and enhance the sustainability of energy systems,” Kavishwar concludes.
In the ever-changing landscape of the energy sector, understanding the nuances of material behavior is crucial. This study serves as a reminder that even small variations in the cladding process can lead to significant differences in material properties, shaping the future of energy technologies.