metals

Article
The Influence of the Post-Weld Heat Treatment on the
Microstructure of Inconel 625/Carbon Steel Bimetal
Joint Obtained by Explosive Welding
Robert Kosturek 1 , Marcin Wachowski 1, * , Lucjan Śnieżek 1 and Michał Gloc 2
1 Military University of Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, 2 gen. W. Urbanowicza str.,
00-908 Warsaw, Poland; robert.kosturek@wat.edu.pl (R.K.); lucjan.sniezek@wat.edu.pl (L.Ś.)
2 Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, 141 Woloska str.,
02-507 Warsaw, Poland; michalgloc@poczta.fm
* Correspondence: marcin.wachowski@wat.edu.pl; Tel.: +48-261-839-245




Received: 11 January 2019; Accepted: 12 February 2019; Published: 19 February 2019


Abstract: Inconel 625 and steel P355NH were bonded by explosive welding in this study. Explosively
welded bimetal clad-plate was subjected to the two separated post-weld heat treatment processes:
stress relief annealing (at 620 ◦ C for 90 min) and normalizing (at 910 ◦ C for 30 min). Effect of heat
treatments on the microstructure of the joint has been evaluated using light and scanning electron
microscopy, EDS analysis techniques, and microhardness tests, respectively. It has been stated that
stress relief annealing leads to partial recrystallization of steel P355NH microstructure in the joint
zone. At the same time, normalizing caused not only the recrystallization of both materials, but
also the formation of a diffusion zone and precipitates in Inconel 625. The precipitates in Inconel
625 have been identified as two types of carbides: chromium-rich M23 C6 and molybdenum-rich
M6 C. It has been reported that diffusion of alloying elements into steel P355NH takes place along
grain boundaries with additional formation of voids. Scanning transmission electron microscope
observation of the grain microstructure in the diffusion zone shows that this area consists of equiaxed
grains (at the side of Inconel 625 alloy) and columnar grains (at the side of steel P355NH).

Keywords: explosive welding; heat treatment; Inconel; steel; microstructure

1. Introduction
Corrosive wear is a significant problem for the utilization of components of equipment operating
in an aggressive environment, such as reactors, tanks, heat exchangers, and pipelines in the chemical
industry and geothermal power plants [1,2]. Basically, the alloys which can provide a specified resistant
against corrosion in the aggressive environment are expensive. However, there is no need for making
the entire component from corrosion resistant material—only its surface, which has direct contact with
an aggressive medium. An approach worth considering is the use of relatively inexpensive material
(e.g., non-alloy steel) and cladding it with layer of corrosion resistant alloy, such as stainless steel or
nickel alloy providing potentiality of operating in the aggressive environment. This solution allows
to reduce the material cost of industry equipment significantly depending on used manufacturing
technique [3–5]. As an example of such bimetal clad plate Inconel/steel system can be given, in which
steel is a load-bearing component while Inconel provides resistance to an aggressive environment.
This paper investigates steel P355NH cladded with Inconel 625 as bimetallic material of the above type.
A pressure vessel steel grade P355NH, weldable constructional steel with fine grain microstructure,
is used as material for the manufacture of pressure equipment operating under high temperature
(up to 450 ◦ C) [6]. The poor corrosion resistance of this steel limits its applications as a construction

Metals 2019, 9, 246; doi:10.3390/met9020246 www.mdpi.com/journal/metals

Metals 2019, 9, 246 2 of 16

material for the equipment working in the aggressive environment significantly. As it was mentioned
previously, the potential solution of this problem is to clad steel P355NH with a layer of corrosion
resistant material, e.g., Inconel 625, high-temperature creep resistant nickel alloy which is characterized
by high resistance to oxidizing and reducing environment as well as pitting and crevice corrosion and
it also displays tolerance to a wide range of the operating temperature (from −150 ◦ C to 982 ◦ C) [7].
Materials cladding or modifying their surface layer are widely used technologies in the production
of industry equipment and machinery, but not all of this process can provide sufficient properties in
terms of the formability of the cladded material [8–10]. The technology which allows to produce such
bimetal clad-plate and provide both high quality of joint and formability is the explosive welding
technique [11–14]. In this process, the energy released during detonation of the high explosive is used
to accelerate one metal plate into another, and as a result, the high velocity collision of metal plates
occurs [15,16]. The high energy collision results in bringing the surfaces of the colliding metals close
enough to each other to obtain interaction between their atoms and make the formation of a metallic
bond between them possible [14,17–20]. The severe plastic deformation of the materials significantly
influences their microstructure and causes strain hardening in the joint zone. Clad-plates manufactured
by this method are subjected to further technological processes to form specific equipment components
for the industry, e.g. pipes, pressure vessels, tube plates for heat exchangers. For this reason, the high
strain hardening of bimetal is a phenomenon which makes difficulties during plastic forming of
clad-plate in the as-welded state. In order to decrease the degree of strain hardening of both materials,
as well as, to reduce the residual stresses, the clad-plates are subjected to heat treatment [21–23].
However, the annealing of bimetallic materials in many cases leads to microstructural changes within
the joint zone, which may decrease the mechanical properties of bond between welded metals [24].
According to previous investigations performed by the authors of this paper, the normalizing of Inconel
625—steel P355NH joint obtained by explosive welding decreases its shear strength by 33% (decrease
from 572 MPa to 383 MPa, determined according to PN-EN13445:2014) [22]. The heat treatment of the
explosively welded clad-plate may result in such changes in the joint zone as grainy microstructure
evolutions (recrystallization, grain growth), diffusion processes, as well as, the formation of new
phases [16,21,25–28]. The character of the diffusion zone depends on the mutual solubility of the alloy
chemical components. As a result of the diffusion changes within joint zone it is possible of brittle
intermetallic compounds to be formed, new solid solutions or precipitates [29,30]. The important
phenomenon, which can take place during heat treatment of the bimetal system is the Kirkendall
effect, which results in the formation of the voids in the joint area as a consequence of the differences
in diffusion rates of specific alloying elements of the welded materials [25,27,31–33]. The second
important aspect that has to be taken into consideration is the fact that exposing of Inconel alloys
to the long-term annealing process may have consequences in the formation of precipitates in their
microstructure (e.g. carbides, γ” and δ phases) [34–37]. Although, the classic heat treatments of
the clad-plates are not long enough to cause the precipitation processes in Inconel alloys, the severe
plastic deformation which affects the material in the joint area influence the kinetic of precipitating
significantly promotes quicker formation of precipitates [38–40]. Beside plastic deformation, another
important factor which promotes formation of carbide precipitates during heat treatment is the carbon
diffusion from steel into Inconel alloy which contains chemical elements having a high affinity for
carbon (Cr, Mo, Nb) [41]. For this reason, Inconel 625 layer close to joint line has a high potential
to form the precipitates during heat treatment of the investigated explosively welded clad-plate.
These precipitates can not only decrease the mechanical properties of Inconel alloy but also cause the
reduction of the joint strength between welded materials, what can result in high risk of delamination
of clad plate during its utilization. Although Inconel/steel explosively welded clad-plate has been
a subject of some studies, the literature does not contain sufficient research on the influence of the
heat treatment on the changes in the joint zone microstructure [11–14]. Heat-activated phenomena
may significantly decrease strength of the joint and cause the risk of failure during heat treatment and
forming at the manufacturing stage of specific component. The present work is aimed to investigate
Metals 2019, 9, 246 3 of 16

the influence of stress relief annealing and normalizing on the microstructure of Inconel 625/steel
P355NH bimetallic joint.
Metals 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 17
2. Materials and Methods
2. Materials and Methods
In this study, the materials used for the manufacturing of bimetal clad-plate were a 10 mm thick
plateInofthis study,
steel the materials
P355NH and a 3 mm usedthick
for the manufacturing
sheet of Inconel 625of bimetal clad-plate
alloy. The wereof
dimensions a 10 mm were
plates thick
plate of steel P355NH and a 3 mm thick sheet of Inconel 625 alloy. The dimensions
equal to 860 × 1000 mm. The surfaces to be joined have been polished and cleaned with acetone of plates were
equal to 860 × 1000 mm. The surfaces to be joined have been polished and cleaned
before welding. The chemical compositions of the materials are presented in Table 1. The sampleswith acetone before
welding.
were Theof
cut out chemical compositions
the workpieces in orderof the materials
to perform are presented in
a microstructure Table 1. Theof
investigation samples were
materials cut
in the
out of the workpieces in order to perform a microstructure investigation of materials
as-received. The process of explosive welding of steel P355NH and Inconel 625 alloy was performed in the as-
received.
by EXPLOMETThe process of explosive
High-Energy welding
Techniques of steel
Works P355NH
company and Inconel
(Opole, 625The
Poland). alloy was performed
explosive by
used in the
EXPLOMET High-Energy Techniques Works company (Opole, Poland). The explosive
process was modified ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), with detonation velocity of 2700 m/s, which used in the
process
has beenwas modifiedusing
determined ammonium nitrate
optical fiber fuel oil
sensors. The(ANFO),
stand-offwith detonation
distance between velocity of 2700
plates was m/s,
equal to
3which has been
mm. The determined
explosive has beenusing
placed optical fiber
directly onsensors. Theplate
Inconel 625 stand-off
and nodistance
buffer between
plate has plates was
been used.
equal samples
Three to 3 mm.were
The explosive
cut out of has been placed
the bimetallic directly produced
clad-plate on Inconelby 625 plate and
explosive no buffer
welding, plate has
as shown in
been used.
Figure 1. Three samples were cut out of the bimetallic clad-plate produced by explosive welding,
as shown in Figure 1.
Table 1. Chemical composition of the joined alloys [% mass].
Table 1. Chemical composition of the joined alloys [% mass].
Al Cr Fe Mo Nb Ti Ni
Inconel 625 Al Cr Fe Mo Nb Ti Ni
Inconel 625 0.16 21.5 4.6 8.7 3.32 0.18 Base
0.16 21.5 4.6 8.7 3.32 0.18 Base
C Cr Si Mn Ni Cu Fe
St. P355NH C Cr Si Mn Ni Cu Fe
St. P355NH 0.18 0.02 0.35 1.19 0.22 0.2 Base
0.18 0.02 0.35 1.19 0.22 0.2 Base

Figure 1. Area from which samples of bimetallic-clad plates were collected for microstructure
Figure 1. Area from which samples of bimetallic-clad plates were collected for microstructure
investigation.
investigation.
In order to analyze the influence of the post-weld heat treatment on the microstructure of the
In order
obtained joint,tothe
analyze the influence
first sample of the
has been post-weld heat
investigated in the treatment
as-welded on state,
the microstructure
the second sample of the
obtained
has been joint, the first
subjected sample
to heat has been
treatment investigated
of stress in the as-welded
relief annealing ◦
(at 620 state,
C for the second
90 min), andsample has
the third
been subjected
sample to heat treatment
was subjected of stress relief
to the normalizing (at 910 ◦ C for 30
annealing (at min).
620 °CThefor 90 min), andof
parameters thethe
third sample
post-weld
was treatment
heat subjected have
to the normalizing
been selected for(atbase
910material
°C for 30 min). The
(P355NH), parameters
which of the post-weld
plays a load-bearing role inheat
the
treatment have
investigated been selected
clad-plate. for base
As a result, formaterial (P355NH),
the further whichthe
investigation plays
threea load-bearing
samples wererole in the
obtained:
ainvestigated
sample afterclad-plate.
explosive As a result,
welding for
(InSt the further
EXW), sampleinvestigation
after post-weld thestress
threerelief
samples were obtained:
annealing (InSt HTR) a
sample
and afterafter
sample explosive welding
post-weld (InSt EXW),
normalizing sample
(InSt HTN).after post-weld
In order stressthe
to perform relief annealing (InSt
microstructure HTR)
analysis,
and sample after post-weld normalizing (InSt HTN). In order to perform the microstructure analysis,
the samples have been subjected to the metallographic preparation. The cut samples were mounted
in hot-mounting resin, ground with abrasive paper of 80, 320, 600, 1200 and 2400 gradations and
polished using diamond paste of 1 µm gradation. In order to reveal the microstructure of steel
P355NH, 2% nital etchant with etching time of 5–10 seconds was used and in case of Inconel 625 alloy,
Metals 2019, 9, 246 4 of 16

the samples have been subjected to the metallographic preparation. The cut samples were mounted
in hot-mounting resin, ground with abrasive paper of 80, 320, 600, 1200 and 2400 gradations and
polished
Metals 2018,using diamond
8, x FOR paste of 1 µm gradation. In order to reveal the microstructure of steel P355NH,
PEER REVIEW 4 of 17
2% nital etchant with etching time of 5–10 seconds was used and in case of Inconel 625 alloy, acetic
acetic glyceregia
glyceregia (15 mL(15HClmL38%,
HCl10 38%,
mL10 ofmL of acetic
acetic acid 599%,
acid 99%, 5 mL 3HNO
mL HNO 65%,drops
65%,3 1–2 1–2 drops of glycerol)
of glycerol) with
with etching time of 15 min. Grain size of the materials has been measured with
etching time of 15 min. Grain size of the materials has been measured with Mountains Map 7 software. Mountains Map 7
software. The microstructure of the samples was investigated using light
The microstructure of the samples was investigated using light microscope OLYMPUS LEXT OLS 4100microscope OLYMPUS
LEXT OLS
(Military 4100 (Military
University University
of Technology, of Technology,
Warsaw, Poland) andWarsaw,
scanningPoland)
electron and scanning
microscope electron
(SEM) Jeol
microscope (SEM) Jeol JSM 6610 (Military University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland)
JSM 6610 (Military University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland) equipped with energy-dispersive x-ray equipped with
energy-dispersive
spectroscopy (EDS) x-ray
andspectroscopy
back-scattered (EDS) and back-scattered
electron (BSE) detector.electron (BSE) detector.
The diffusion The diffusion
zone, which has been
zone, which has been formed in the post-weld normalizing (InSt HTN) sample was
formed in the post-weld normalizing (InSt HTN) sample was investigated using scanning transmission investigated using
scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) Hitachi S-5500N (Military
electron microscope (STEM) Hitachi S-5500N (Military University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland). University of
Technology,
The sample for Warsaw,
STEM Poland).. The sample
was prepared for STEM
using dual beamwas prepared
system using
Hitachi dual beam
NB-5000 system
(Military Hitachi
University
NB-5000 (Military University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland). In order
of Technology, Warsaw, Poland). In order to establish the strain hardening of analyzed samples to establish the strain
the
hardening of analyzed samples the Vickers microhardness test was performed
Vickers microhardness test was performed with loading of 100 g. Microhardness distributions were with loading of 100 g.
Microhardness
prepared for eachdistributions
sample. The were
first prepared for each sample.
two measurements The first200
were performed twoµm measurements
from the jointwere
line,
performed 200 µm from the joint line, in the layer of Inconel 625 alloy and
in the layer of Inconel 625 alloy and in steel P355NH as shown in Figure 2. Subsequently, in steel P355NH as shown
measurement
in Figurewere
imprints 2. Subsequently,
guided towardsmeasurement
the edge ofimprints wereatguided
the samples, towards
the distance of the
2000edge
µm. of the samples, at
the distance of 2000 µm.

Figure 2.
Figure The scheme
2. The scheme of
of microhardness
microhardness testing.
testing.
3. Results
3. Results
3.1. Microstructure of the Raw Materials
3.1. Microstructure of the Raw Materials
In the first part of the investigation the light microscopy observations of the base materials after
In the
etching first
have part
been of the investigation
performed. the light microscopy
The microstructures observations
of steel P355NH (Figureof theand
3A) base materials
Inconel after
625 alloy
etching 3B)
(Figure haveinbeen performed.state
the as-received The microstructures
are presented inof steel P355NH
Figure (Figure
3. As it can 3A) andthe
be observed, Inconel
steel 625 alloy
P355NH
(Figure 3B) in the as-received state are presented in Figure 3. As it can be observed, the steel
has a ferrite-pearlite microstructure with noticeable pearlite bands, characteristic for the plates after P355NH
has a ferrite-pearlite
rolling microstructure of
process. The microstructure with noticeable
steel pearlite bands,
has fine equiaxial grainscharacteristic for the plates
with their measured after
size equal
rolling
to 15.5 process.
± 4.1 µm.The Atmicrostructure
the same time,ofInconel
steel has625
fine equiaxial
alloy has far grains
morewith their measured
heterogenous size equal
microstructure
to 15.5 ± 4.1 µm. At the same time, Inconel 625 alloy has far more heterogenous
characterized by presence of twins and measured grain size of 49.4 ± 15.6 µm. Additionally, microstructure
characterized
the microhardnessby presence of twinshas
of base materials and measured
been measured grain
withsize of 49.4values
registered ± 15.6ofµm. Additionally,
150.6 ± 4.9 HV0.1 thefor
microhardness of base materials has been measured with registered
steel P355NH and 249.6 ± 16.3 HV0.1 for Inconel 625 alloy, respectively. values of 150.6 ± 4.9 HV0.1 for
steel P355NH and 249.6 ± 16.3 HV0.1 for Inconel 625 alloy, respectively.
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Figure
Figure 3.
Figure 3. Microstructure
3. Microstructure of
Microstructure of materials
of materials in
materials in the
in the as-received
the as-received state:
as-received state: (A)
state: (A) steel
(A) steel P355NH;
steel P355NH; (B)
P355NH; (B) Inconel
(B) Inconel 625.
Inconel 625.
625.

3.2. Microstructure
3.2. Microstructure of aa Sample
Microstructure of Sample After
After Explosive
Explosive Welding
Welding (InSt
(InSt EXW)
EXW) Joint
Joint
The obtained
The obtained joint
joint has
has aa wavy
wavy structure,
structure, typical
typical for
for explosively
explosively welded
welded bond.
bond. The
The grains
grains of
of both
both
materials
materials in the
the joint
joint zone
zone are
are deformed
deformed due
due to
to severe
severe plastic
plastic deformation
deformation during
during collision,
collision, as
joint zone are deformed due to severe plastic deformation during collision, as it can as
it it
can can
be
be
be observed
observed
observed after
after
after etching
etching
etching of steel
of steel
of steel P355NH
P355NH
P355NH (Figure
(Figure 4A)
4A)4A)
(Figure and
andand Inconel
Inconel 625
625625
Inconel alloy
alloy (Figure
(Figure
alloy 4B).
4B).4B).
(Figure

Figure 4.
Figure 4. Microstructure
Microstructure ofof the
of the joint
the jointin
joint insample
in sampleafter
sample afterexplosive
after explosivewelding
explosive welding(InSt
welding (InSt
(InSt EXW):
EXW): (A)
(A)
EXW): after
after
(A) etching
etching
after of
etching
of
of steel
steel
steel P355NH;
P355NH;
P355NH; (B)
(B)(B) after
after etching
etching
after etching of
of of Inconel
Inconel 625
625625
Inconel alloy.
alloy.
alloy.

The observations
The observations using
using scanning
scanning electron
electron microscope
microscope (BSE)
(BSE) show
show thethe occurrence
occurrence of
of melted
melted zones
zones
zones
in the
in the joint,
joint, where
where the
the two welded materials
two welded materials have
have been
been stirred
stirred together
together (Figure
(Figure 5A).
5A). In
In the
the melted
melted
zones, the investigation
zones, the investigation
zones, revealed
investigation revealed the
revealed the presence
the presence of
presence of joint
of joint imperfections
joint imperfections
imperfections in in the
in the form
the form of both cracks
form of both cracks andand
fragments of
fragments
fragments of steel
steel P355NH
P355NH surface layer, which
surface layer, which underwent
underwent partial
partial fragmentation during explosive
fragmentation during explosive
welding process, as evidenced by linear analysis of the chemical composition (Figure 5B).
welding process, as evidenced by linear analysis of the chemical composition (Figure 5B). The resultsThe results
of the chemical composition analysis
composition analysis
of the chemical composition indicate
analysis indicate on the highest participation
indicate on the highest participation of Inconel 625 alloying
participation of Inconel 625 alloying
elements in this area with small fluctuations near to the steel P355NH fragment.
elements in this area with small fluctuations near to the steel P355NH fragment.
fragment.
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Figure 5.
Figure Melted zone
5. Melted zone in
in InSt EXW sample: (A)
(A) microstructure
microstructure of
of the
the melted
melted zone;
zone; (B) with linear
analysis of
analysis of the
the chemical
chemical composition
composition (yellow
(yellow marker).
marker).

3.3. Microstructure of Sample After Post-Weld Stress Relief Annealing (InSt HTR) Joint
3.3. Microstructure of Sample After Post-Weld Stress Relief Annealing (InSt HTR) Joint
Post-weld stress relief annealing of Inconel 625/steel P355NH bimetallic clad-plate, performed at
Post-weld stress relief annealing of Inconel 625/steel P355NH bimetallic clad-plate, performed
620 ◦ C for 90 min slightly influences the microstructure of the joint zone. The partial recrystallization of
at 620 °C for 90 min slightly influences the microstructure of the joint zone. The partial
steel P355NH microstructure has been reported in the area of 20–30 µm from the joint line (Figure 6A).
recrystallization of steel P355NH microstructure has been reported in the area of 20–30 μm from the
New, equiaxial grains formed on the joint line do not have deformation texture of previous compressed,
joint line (Figure 6A). New, equiaxial grains formed on the joint line do not have deformation texture
elongated grains. The microstructure of steel P355NH farther from the joint line (about 30 µm)
of previous compressed, elongated grains. The microstructure of steel P355NH farther from the joint
maintains the deformation texture and no recrystallized grains have been observed. On the other hand,
line (about 30 μm) maintains the deformation texture and no recrystallized grains have been
the microstructure of Inconel 625 alloy did not reveal any visible changes in the grain morphology
observed. On the other hand, the microstructure of Inconel 625 alloy did not reveal any visible
after stress relief annealing compared with its microstructure in the as-welded state (Figure 6B).
changes in the grain morphology after stress relief annealing compared with its microstructure in the
as-welded state (Figure 6B).
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Figure 6. Microstructure of the joint in sample after post-weld stress relief annealing (InSt HTR) sample:
Figure
Figure 6. Microstructure
6.etching
(A) after Microstructure of
of the
the joint
of steel P355NH; joint in
in sample
etchingafter
sample
(B) after after post-weld
post-weld
of Inconel stress
stress relief
625 alloy. relief annealing
annealing (InSt
(InSt HTR)
HTR)
sample:
sample: (A)
(A) after
after etching
etching ofof steel
steel P355NH;
P355NH; (B) (B) after
after etching
etching of
of Inconel
Inconel 625
625 alloy.
alloy.
The scanning electron microscope observations did not show any visible changes in the
The scanning
concentration of theelectron
chemicalmicroscope
elements inobservations
the joint zonedid not show
(Figure 7). Bothany
thevisible
bound changes
between in the
joined
concentration of the chemical
materials and melted zone are elements in the
not affected joint zone
by stress relief (Figure 7).in
annealing Both theofbound
terms between
chemical joined
composition.
materials and melted zone are not affected by stress relief annealing in terms of chemical composition.
The small imperfections in form of voids are possible to observe in melted zone, which is localized on
The
one small
side ofimperfections in form
the intersurface waveof voids 7).
(Figure are possible to observe in melted zone, which is localized
on one side of the intersurface wave (Figure 7).

Figure
Figure7.
Figure 7.Image
7. Imageof
Image ofthe
of thejoint
the jointin
joint inInSt
in InStHTR
InSt HTRsample
HTR sample from
sample from the
from the scanning
the scanning electron
scanning electron microscope.
electron microscope.
microscope.

3.4.
3.4. Microstructure
Microstructure of
of InSt
InSt HTN
HTN Joint
Joint
The microstructureofof
The microstructure thethe
jointjoint subjected
subjected to normalizing at 910 ◦at
to normalizing 91030°C
C for minfor 30 min
changed changed
significantly.
significantly. It has been
It has been reported reported
that due to thisthat due toheat
post-weld thistreatment
post-weldtheheat treatment
complete the complete
recrystallization of
recrystallization
microstructure ofofboth
microstructure of both joined
joined materials—steel materials—steel
P355NH (Figure 8A) and P355NH (Figure
Inconel 8A) and
625 (Figure 8B)Inconel
occurs.
625
The(Figure
welded8B) occurs. The
materials havewelded materials have
microstructures microstructures
consisting consisting
of fine, equiaxial of fine,
grains and equiaxial grains
no deformation
and no deformation
texture is noticeable.texture
The sizeisof
noticeable. The
steel grains is size
aboutof20
steel
µm,grains
whichisisabout 20 μm,
a typical which
value is amaterial
for this typical
value for this material
after normalizing. after normalizing.
Additionally, Additionally,
it has been observed the it has been observed
presence thegrains
of ultrafine presencewithofsize
ultrafine
about
grains
5 µm ofwith sizeP355NH
steel about 5 µm of steel
on the jointP355NH on the8A).
line (Figure jointInline (Figure
case 8a). In625
of Inconel casegrains
of Inconel
have625 grains
size also
have size also about 20 µm with low participation of twins and significant amount of precipitates
localized on grain boundaries.
Metals 2019, 9, 246 8 of 16

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about 20 µm with low participation of twins and significant amount of precipitates localized on
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Figure 8. Microstructure of the joint in post-weld normalizing (InSt HTN) sample: (A) after etching of
Figure
steel
Figure Microstructure
8. Microstructure
P355NH;
8. of the
the joint
(B) after etching
of joint in post-weld
post-weld
of Inconel
in normalizing (InSt
625 alloy.
normalizing (InSt HTN)
HTN) sample:
sample: (A)
(A) after
after etching
etching of
of
steel P355NH; (B) after etching of Inconel 625 alloy.
steel P355NH; (B) after etching of Inconel 625 alloy.
The observations using scanning electron microscope show significant changes in the
The observations
concentration using
of alloyingusing
elementsscanning electron
in the joint microscope
area. Itmicroscope show
has been stated significant
thatsignificant changes
alloying elements in the
of Inconel
The observations scanning electron show changes in the
concentration
625 were found of alloying
to diffuse elements
into steel in the
P355NH joint area.
along It has
grain been stated that alloying elements of
concentration of alloying elements in the joint area. It has beenboundaries (Figure elements
stated that alloying 9A). Additionally,
of Inconel
Inconel
diffusion 625 were found to diffuse into steel P355NH along grain boundaries (Figure 9A). Additionally,
625 were zonefound contains voids,
to diffuse intowhich
steel are localized
P355NH alongmainly
grainonboundaries
grain boundaries
(Figureand9A).the joint line at
Additionally,
diffusion zone
the side ofzone contains
steelcontains voids,
P355NHvoids, which
(Figure are
9B). are localized
Another mainly
noticeable on grain boundaries and the joint line at the
diffusion which localized mainlychange compared
on grain withand
boundaries thethe
joint in the
joint lineas-
at
side of
welded steel
stateP355NH
is (Figure
formation of 9B). Another
precipitates noticeable
in the joint change
zone, compared
which are with the
localized joint
in in the
Inconel as-welded
625 alloy
the side of steel P355NH (Figure 9B). Another noticeable change compared with the joint in the as-
state is formation of precipitates in the joint zone, which are localized in Inconel 625 alloy (Figure 9A,B).
(Figure
welded 9A,B).
state is formation of precipitates in the joint zone, which are localized in Inconel 625 alloy
(Figure 9A,B).

Figure
Figure 9.
9. Image
Image of
of the
the joint
joint in
in InSt
InSt HTN
HTN sample
sample from
from the
the scanning
scanning electron
electron microscope:
microscope: (A)
(A) diffusion
diffusion
of alloying
of alloying
Figure elements
elements
9. Image of the through
through
joint inthethe joint
joint
InSt HTN line and
linesample precipitates
and precipitates in Inconel
in Inconel
from the scanning 625 alloy;
625 alloy;
electron (B) diffusion
(B) diffusion
microscope: (A) zone zone
with
diffusion
with visible
visible
of voids
voidselements
alloying along
along the the grain boundaries
grain boundaries
through the joint line and
andand the joint
the precipitates line.
joint line. in Inconel 625 alloy; (B) diffusion zone
with visible voids along the grain boundaries and the joint line.
Scanning
Scanning electron
electron microscope
microscope observations revealed the presence of two types of of precipitates
precipitates inin
Inconel
Inconel 625
625 alloy—light
alloy—light precipitates
precipitates (suggesting
(suggesting a a high
high concentration
concentration of of alloying
alloying elements
elements
Scanning electron microscope observations revealed the presence of two types of precipitates in heavierheavier
than
than nickel)
nickel)
Inconel and and precipitates
625 dark dark precipitates
alloy—light (high (high
precipitates concentration
concentration
(suggesting of ofconcentration
a alloying
high alloying elements
elements lighter lighter than nickel).
than nickel).
of alloying elements The
Theheavier
size of
size
than of precipitates
precipitates
nickel) isand
about
darkis0.5–1
about
µm0.5–1 µm
(Figure
precipitates (Figure
10A).
(high 10A).toInestablish
In order
concentration order
of toaestablish
alloyingchemical
elements acomposition
chemical composition
lighter thanofnickel).
precipitatesof
The
precipitates
EDX area EDX
analysis area
has analysis
been has
performed. been performed.
Dark Dark
precipitates are precipitates
characterized areby characterized
high
size of precipitates is about 0.5–1 µm (Figure 10A). In order to establish a chemical composition of by
concentration high
of
concentration
chromium and
precipitates ofincreased
EDX chromium
area analysisand has
increased
participation participation
of performed.
been molybdenum of molybdenum
(Figure
Dark 10B). At are
precipitates (Figure
the same10B).
time,Atit the
characterized by same
has been
high
time, it has been found that chemical composition of light precipitates has
concentration of chromium and increased participation of molybdenum (Figure 10B). At the same high molybdenum and
niobium content (Figure 10C). Additionally, the presence of carbon in both types
time, it has been found that chemical composition of light precipitates has high molybdenum and of precipitates has
been reported.
niobium content (Figure 10C). Additionally, the presence of carbon in both types of precipitates has
been reported.
Metals 2019, 9, 246 9 of 16

found that chemical composition of light precipitates has high molybdenum and niobium content
(Figure 10C). Additionally, the presence of carbon in both types of precipitates has been reported.
Metals 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 17

Figure 10. Precipitates

Figure 10. Precipitates in
inInconel
Inconel625
625(A)
(A)together
togetherwith
withthe
theresults ofof
results chemical composition
chemical analysis
composition of
analysis
dark precipitate (B) and light precipitate (C).
of dark precipitate (B) and light precipitate (C).

The width of the diffusion zone in InSt HTN sample (Figure 11A) has been estimated using linear
The width of the diffusion zone in InSt HTN sample (Figure 11A) has been estimated using
analysis of chemical composition (Figure 11B). The diffusion zone has about 15 µm width and can be
linear analysis of chemical composition (Figure 11B). The diffusion zone has about 15 μm width and
divided into two sections: iron-rich and chromium and nickel-rich. (Figure 11B).
can be divided into two sections: iron-rich and chromium and nickel-rich. (Figure 11B).
Metals 2019, 9, 246 10 of 16
Metals
Metals2018,
2018,8,8,xxFOR
FORPEER
PEERREVIEW
REVIEW 10
10ofof17
17

Figure
Figure11.11.Image
Imageofofthe joint
thejoint ininInSt
jointin HTN
InStHTN sample:
HTNsample: (A)
sample:(A)
(A)microstructure
microstructureof the joint; (B) linear analysis
Figure 11. Image of the InSt microstructure of of
thethe joint;
joint; (B)(B) linear
linear analysis
analysis of
ofofthe chemical composition (yellow marker).
thethe chemical
chemical composition
composition (yellow
(yellow marker).
marker).

3.5. Scanning
3.5. Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope Observations of the Diffusion Zone
3.5. ScanningTransmission
Transmission Electron Microscope Observations of the Diffusion Zone
Observations
Observations of the diffusion zone performed on on scanning transmission electron microscope allow
Observationsof ofthe
thediffusion
diffusionzone
zoneperformed
performed onscanning
scanningtransmission
transmissionelectron
electronmicroscope
microscope
to investigate
allow the grainygrainy
microstructure of this area. It has been stated that in terms in of grain structure
allowtotoinvestigate
investigatethe the grainymicrostructure
microstructureof ofthis
thisarea.
area.ItIthas
hasbeen
beenstated
statedthat
that interms
termsof ofgrain
grain
the diffusion
structure zone consists of two subzones: area of equiaxed grains (at side of Inconel 625 alloy)
structure the diffusion zone consists of two subzones: area of equiaxed grains (at side of Inconel625
the diffusion zone consists of two subzones: area of equiaxed grains (at side of Inconel 625
and area
alloy) of columnar grains (at side of(atsteel P355NH) (Figure 12A).(Figure
In both cases,In the microstructure
alloy) and
and area
area of of columnar
columnar grainsgrains (at side
side of
of steel
steel P355NH)
P355NH) (Figure 12A). 12A). In both
both cases,
cases, the
the
nm–1 μm.
consists of ultrafine
microstructure grains with their size within the rangesizeof 400 nm–1the µm. Predominantly, the finer
microstructure consists
consists of of ultrafine
ultrafine grains
grains with
with their
their size within
within the range range ofof 400
400 nm–1 μm.
grains close to Inconel
Predominantly, 625 are equiaxed and columnar grainsequiaxed
close to P355NH have slightly larger size.
Predominantly, the the finer
finer grains
grains close
close toto Inconel
Inconel 625
625 are
are equiaxed and and columnar
columnar grains
grains close
close to
to
Additionally,
P355NH it has been reported the occurrence of precipitates with theiroccurrence
width about 50 nm in the
P355NHhave haveslightly
slightlylarger
largersize.
size.Additionally,
Additionally,itithashasbeen
beenreported
reportedthe the occurrenceof ofprecipitates
precipitates
diffusion
with zone (Figure 12B).
withtheir
theirwidth
widthabout
about50 50nmnmin inthe
thediffusion
diffusionzone
zone(Figure
(Figure12B).
12B).

Figure
Figure12.
Figure 12.Image
12. Imageof
Image ofthe
of thediffusion
the diffusionzone
diffusion zonegrainy
zone grainymicrostructure
grainy microstructurein
microstructure inInSt
in InStHTN
InSt HTNsample
HTN sample(A);
sample (A);Image
(A); Imageof
Image ofthe
of the
the
precipitate
precipitate in
in the
the diffusion
diffusion zone (B).
precipitate in the diffusion zone (B).
Metals 2019,
Metals
Metals 9, 246
2018,
2018, 8,
8, xx FOR
FOR PEER
PEER REVIEW
REVIEW 11 1117
11 of
of of 16
17

The
The linear
linear analysis
analysis of of chemical
chemical composition
composition has has been
been performed
performed in in order
order to to investigate
investigate subzone
subzone
of The linear analysis of chemical composition has been performed in order to investigate subzone of
of columnar
columnar grainsgrains (Figure
(Figure 13).
13). Results
Results indicate
indicate on on similar
similar concentration
concentration of of chromium
chromium and and niobium
niobium
columnar
in
in the grains (Figure
the analyzed
analyzed area. 13).
area. On
On theResults
the otherindicate
other hand,
hand, the on
thesimilar
elements
elements concentration
such
such as as iron
iron of and
chromium
and nickel, and
nickel, which
which niobium
are
are mainin the
main
analyzed
components
componentsarea. of Onthe
of thediffusion
the other hand,
diffusion zone,the
zone, elements
show
show such fluctuations
significant
significant as iron and nickel,
fluctuations in theirwhich
in their are mainin
concentration
concentration incomponents
this
this zone. It of
zone. It
thehas
diffusion
been zone,
reported show
that significant
concentration fluctuations
of nickel in their
decreases concentration
drastically on
has been reported that concentration of nickel decreases drastically on the border between columnar inthethis zone.
border It has
between been reported
columnar
that concentration
grains
grains area
area of of the
theofdiffusion
nickel decreases
diffusion zone
zone andand drastically
steel
steel P355NH. on theAt
P355NH. border
At the
the samebetween
same time columnar
time the grains area
the concentration
concentration of of the
of iron
iron
increases,
diffusion
increases,zone also
alsoandrapidly. The
The results
steel P355NH.
rapidly. resultsAtof linear
ofthe same
linear analysis
time the
analysis together with
with scanning
concentration
together of irontransmission
scanning increases, also
transmission electron
rapidly.
electron
Themicroscopy observations of this area suggest the predominate role of
microscopy observations of this area suggest the predominate role of nickel and iron concentration of
results of linear analysis together with scanning transmission electronnickel and
microscopy iron concentration
observations
ratio
areain
thisratio the
the forming
insuggest of
of diffusion
diffusion zone.
the predominate
forming role ofThe
zone. nickel
The precipitates
and ironfounded
precipitates in
in this
concentration
founded area
thisratio
area inwere
theaaforming
were subject
subject of of further
of diffusion
further
investigation
investigation
zone. and
The precipitates observations
and observations
founded in performed
performed
this areaon on scanning
scanning
were transmission
transmission
a subject electron
of furtherelectron microscope
microscope
investigation reveal
and reveal their
their
observations
specific
performed structure
specific structure
on scanning consisted
consisted of core and
of core and
transmission shell (Figure
shell (Figure
electron 12B). In
12B). In
microscope order to
ordertheir
reveal examine
to examine chemical
specificchemical
structure composition
composition
consisted of
of
core precipitate
of and
precipitate in
in the
shell (Figure diffusion
the 12B).
diffusion zone
zonetothe
In order the linear
linear analysis
examine chemicalwas
analysis was performed
performedof(Figure
composition (Figure
precipitate14).
14). The
The
in theshell-core
shell-core
diffusion
structure
structure has been
has been confirmed
confirmed in terms of chemical
in terms of chemical composition,
composition, since it has
since itstructure been reported
has been reported that in
in the
zone the linear analysis was performed (Figure 14). The shell-core has beenthat the
confirmed
precipitate area there are significant differences in distribution of alloying elements. The shell has
in precipitate area there
terms of chemical are significant
composition, differences
since it has been in distribution
reported that of alloying elements. The
in the precipitate area shell
therehasare
high
high concentration
concentration of niobium
niobium and andofmolybdenum, while core consists of
of chromium and
andofalso of
significant differences of in distribution molybdenum,
alloying elements. whileThecore consists
shell has high chromium
concentration also of
niobium
niobium
niobium and
and molybdenum
molybdenum (compared
(compared to
to the
the average
average value
value of
of concentration
concentration of
of these
these elements
elements in
in the
the
and molybdenum, while core consists of chromium and also of niobium and molybdenum (compared
diffusion
diffusion zone).
zone).
to the average value of concentration of these elements in the diffusion zone).

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)
Figure
Figure 13.13.
Figure TheThe
13. The results
results
results of
of linear
linear
of linear analysis
of theof
analysis
analysis the
the chemical
ofchemical
chemical composition
composition
composition of
of columnar
grains grains
columnar
of columnar grains in
in the
the
in the diffusion
diffusion
diffusion zone.
zone. Lines
Lines designation:
designation: Fe
Fe (green),
(green), Ni
Ni (blue),
(blue), Cr
Cr (red),
(red), Nb
Nb (purple).
(purple).
zone. Lines designation: Fe (green), Ni (blue), Cr (red), Nb (purple).

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)
Figure 14. The results of linear analysis of the precipitate in the diffusion zone. Lines designation:
Fe (blue), Ni (purple), Cr (green), Nb (black), Mo (burgundy), C (red).
Metals 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 17

Metals 2019, 9, 246 12 of 16

Figure 14. The results of linear analysis of the precipitate in the diffusion zone. Lines designation: Fe
(blue), Ni (purple), Cr (green), Nb (black), Mo (burgundy), C (red).
3.6. Microhardness Analysis
3.6. Microhardness Analysis
The influence of the explosive welding process on the joined materials in terms of strain hardening
was The influence
established byofmicrohardness
the explosiveanalysis
welding(Figure
process15).
on The
the joined
highestmaterials
degree ofinstrain
termshardening
of strain
hardening
has been revealed close to the joint line, where welded materials were subjected to the of
was established by microhardness analysis (Figure 15). The highest degree strain
severest
hardening has been revealed
plastic deformation close
due to high to the collision
velocity joint line,during
where explosive
welded materials
welding were subjected
process. In thistoarea,
the
severest plastic deformation due to high velocity collision during explosive welding
the microhardness of Inconel 625 alloy increased by about 200 HV0.1 and in case of steel P355NH by process. In this
area,
aboutthe
100 microhardness of Inconel
HV0.1. Stress relief annealing 625 alloy increased
reduced by aboutof200
the microhardness steelHV0.1
P355NHandbyin case40ofHV0.1.
about steel
P355NH by about 100 HV0.1. Stress relief annealing reduced the microhardness of steel
It is mostly related to recrystallization of steel P355NH grains and presumably the decreasing of the P355NH by
about 40 HV0.1. It is mostly related to recrystallization of steel P355NH grains and presumably
residual stress of the welded materials in the joint zone. The post-weld heat treatment in the form the
decreasing
of normalizingof the residual
reduced the stress of the welded
microhardness of steelmaterials
P355NH in andthe joint zone.
Inconel 625 to The
theirpost-weld heat
baseline value,
treatment in the form of normalizing
measured in the as-received state. reduced the microhardness of steel P355NH and Inconel 625 to
their baseline value, measured in the as-received state.

Figure 15.
Figure The results
15. The results of
of microhardness
microhardness analysis.
analysis.

4. Discussion
4. Discussion
Both heat treatments cause changes in the microstructure of investigated joint. Stress relief
Both heat treatments cause changes in the microstructure of investigated joint. Stress relief
annealing has a lowest impact on grainy microstructure and leads only to partial recrystallization of
annealing has a lowest impact on grainy microstructure and leads only to partial recrystallization of
steel P355NH grains in the joint zone. On the other hand normalizing the complete restructure of
steel P355NH grains in the joint zone. On the other hand normalizing the complete restructure of
steel grainy microstructure has been noticed. It is a well-known fact that the higher degree of plastic
steel grainy microstructure has been noticed. It is a well-known fact that the higher degree of plastic
deformation, the lower energy is necessary to initiate and complete heat-activated phenomena and
deformation, the lower energy is necessary to initiate and complete heat-activated phenomena and
therefore the recrystallization temperature is lower, which explains the incomplete restructure of the
therefore the recrystallization temperature is lower, which explains the incomplete restructure of the
deformed steel structure after stress relief annealing. Additionally, it can be observed a disappear of
deformed steel structure after stress relief annealing. Additionally, it can be observed a disappear of
pearlite bands close to the joint line, what can suggest the diffusion process of carbon into Inconel
pearlite bands close to the joint line, what can suggest the diffusion process of carbon into Inconel
625 alloy. Inconel contains chemical elements having a high affinity for carbon, such as chromium,
625 alloy. Inconel contains chemical elements having a high affinity for carbon, such as chromium,
molybdenum and niobium and for this reason carbon diffusion can result in formation of brittle
molybdenum and niobium and for this reason carbon diffusion can result in formation of brittle
carbides in the joint zone [15,41–43]. Inconel 625 isothermal transformation diagram shows that the
carbides in the joint zone [15,41–43]. Inconel 625 isothermal transformation diagram shows that the
parameters of the normalizing are close to the area of carbides formation, especially MC and M6 C
parameters of the normalizing are close to the area of carbides formation, especially MC and M6C
types (Figure 16).
types (Figure 16).
Metals 2019, 9, 246 13 of 16
Metals 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 17

Figure 16. Inconel 625 isothermal transformation diagram [35]. Parameters of stress relief annealing
and normalizing have been marked.

As it was mentioned in the introduction part, the plastic deformation of Inconel 625 alloy, alloy, which
took place
placeininthethejoint results
joint in reducing
results in reducing of the energy
of the of heat-activated
energy processes,processes,
of heat-activated including precipitate
including
processes.
precipitate The diffusion
processes. Theof carbon
diffusion from of steel
carbonP355NH
from intosteelInconel
P355NH 625intoalloy is an additional
Inconel 625 alloy factor,
is an
which has a significant impact on the carbides precipitation processes in the
additional factor, which has a significant impact on the carbides precipitation processes in the layer layer of Inconel 625 near to
theInconel
of joint line. Scanning
625 near to theelectron microscopy
joint line. observations
Scanning electron of sample
microscopy subjectedof
observations tosample
the normalizing
subjected
revealed
to presence revealed
the normalizing of precipitates
presence in ofInconel 625 close
precipitates to the 625
in Inconel joint line.to the
close Thejoint
results
line.ofThechemical
results
composition
of chemical analysis
composition of precipitates
analysis indicate to two types
of precipitates of compounds:
indicate to two types light, of
molybdenum-rich
compounds: light, and
dark, chromium-rich.
molybdenum-rich andThedark,presence of carbon The
chromium-rich. in both precipitates
presence of carbonhas inbeen bothreported. The literature
precipitates has been
on the diffusion
reported. bondingon
The literature of the
Inconel 625 and
diffusion low-alloy
bonding steel describes
of Inconel 625 andboth morphology
low-alloy and chemical
steel describes both
composition and
morphology of carbides
chemicalformed in thatofbimetallic
composition system,in
carbides formed identifying
that bimetallic the precipitates as carbides
system, identifying the
of M6 C typeasincarbides
precipitates the caseofofMhigh molybdenum
6C type in the case of concentration
high molybdenum and of concentration
M23 C6 type inand theofcase
M23ofC6 high
type
chromium
in the caseconcentration
of high chromium [41,43]. Additionally,
concentrationM6[41,43]. C carbides have been characterized
Additionally, M6C carbidesbyhave increased
been
concentration by
characterized of niobium
increasedand iron what has
concentration been confirmed
of niobium and iron in what
this investigation
has been confirmed [41]. Scanning
in this
electron microscopy
investigation observation
[41]. Scanning electronof the diffusionobservation
microscopy zone formed of due to normalizing,
the diffusion allow due
zone formed one to
draw a conclusion
normalizing, allowthat one chemical
to draw aelements
conclusion of Inconel 625 alloy
that chemical diffuseofinto
elements steel 625
Inconel P355NH along grain
alloy diffuse into
boundaries.
steel P355NHDiffusion
along grain zone has about Diffusion
boundaries. 15 µm width zone andhascan
about 15 μm width
be divided into twoand sections in terms
can be divided of
into
iron, nickel and chromium concentrations. The first, iron-rich section consists
two sections in terms of iron, nickel and chromium concentrations. The first, iron-rich section consists of about 90% of iron and
below
of about10%90%of nickel
of ironand and chromium.
below 10% Anofanalysis
nickel andof thechromium.
Fe-Ni-Cr phase equilibrium
An analysis of thediagram
Fe-Ni-Cr suggests
phase
that this section
equilibrium is composed
diagram suggestspredominantly
that this section of is
γ phase
composed and very small amount
predominantly of γof α phase
phase and (Figure
very small17).
At the same time, the second section is characterized by high concentration
amount of α phase (Figure 17). At the same time, the second section is characterized by high of nickel (ca. 45%) and
chromium (ca.of
concentration 30%).
nickelPhase diagram
(ca. 45%) andanalysis
chromium also(ca.
indicates on γ phase,
30%). Phase diagram as the mainalso
analysis component
indicatesofon theγ
sectionas
phase, with
thethe
main small addition of
component of the
α’ phase
section (Figure
with the17).small addition of α’ phase (Figure 17).
Scanning transmission electron microscopy observations, allowed to investigate the diffusion zone
microstructure, which consists of equiaxed, columnar grains with presence of 50 nm chromium-rich
precipitates having core-shell structure. It can be stated that both observed diffusion-based phenomena
in sample after normalizing, including diffusion zone with presence of voids and carbides in Inconel
625 alloy have their detrimental effect on the joint strength. The carbides localized in Inconel 625
alloy layer, also result in decreasing of material coherence at the most crucial region—the joint. These
factors might cause the deterioration of the joint quality established by the shear test in the previous
investigation performed by the authors of this paper [22].
Metals 2019, 9, 246 14 of 16
Metals 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 17

17. Fe–Ni–Cr
FigureFigure phase diagram [44] together with marked compositions of: iron-rich section
17. Fe–Ni–Cr phase diagram [44] together with marked compositions of: iron-rich section
(green(green
dot) and nickel-chromium-rich section
dot) and nickel-chromium-rich section(red
(red dot).
dot).

5. Conclusions
Scanning transmission electron microscopy observations, allowed to investigate the diffusion
zone
Analysismicrostructure,
of Inconel which consists
625/steel of equiaxed,
P355NH columnar grains with
joint microstructure presence
in the of 50 nm
as-welded chromium-
state and after two
rich precipitates having core-shell structure. It can be stated that both observed
different, separated types of heat treatment (stress relief annealing and normalizing) allowed the diffusion-based
phenomena in sample after normalizing, including diffusion zone with presence of voids and
following conclusions to be drawn.
carbides in Inconel 625 alloy have their detrimental effect on the joint strength. The carbides localized
1. in Inconel
The 625 alloy
explosive layer, process
welding also resultallowed
in decreasing of material
to obtain coherence steel
joint between at theP355NH
most crucial
andregion—
Inconel 625
the joint. These factors might cause the deterioration of the joint quality established
alloy. The wavy-shape joint was found to include melted zones having high concentration by the shear test of
in the previous investigation performed by the authors of this paper [22].
imperfections such as cracks, voids and fragments of steel P355NH surface layer.
2. Stress relief annealing (620 ◦ C/90 min) led to partial recrystallization of steel P355NH in the
5. Conclusions
joint area. At the same time no changes in the grainy microstructure of Inconel 625 and chemical
Analysis of Inconel 625/steel P355NH joint microstructure in the as-welded state and after two
composition of the joint have been noticed.
different, separated types of heat treatment (stress relief annealing and normalizing) allowed the
3. Heat treatment
following in thetoform
conclusions of normalizing (910 ◦ C/30 min) resulted in complete recrystallization
be drawn.
of
1. grainy microstructure
The explosive weldingofprocess
both bonded
allowed materials.
to obtain joint between steel P355NH and Inconel 625
4. alloy. The wavy-shape joint was found
As the result of normalizing the diffusion of to include melted
Inconel 625 zones having
alloying high concentration
elements of
into steel P355NH
imperfections such as cracks, voids and fragments of steel P355NH
took place along the grain boundaries with tendency to formation of voids. surface layer.
2. Stress relief annealing (620 °C/90 min) led to partial recrystallization of steel P355NH in the joint
5. Additionally, another effect of post-weld normalizing is the formation of M6 C and M23 C6 carbides
area. At the same time no changes in the grainy microstructure of Inconel 625 and chemical
in Inconel 625 alloy
composition in joint
of the the joint
have zone.
been noticed.
3. Heat treatment in the form of normalizing (910 °C/30 min) resulted in complete recrystallization
of grainy microstructure
Author Contributions: For researchof both bonded
articles materials.
with several authors, a short paragraph specifying their individual
4. Asmust
contributions the result of normalizing
be provided. the diffusion
The following of Inconel
statements should625 alloying
be used elements into steel
“conceptualization, P355NH
R.K.; methodology,
M.W. and M.G.; formal
took place analysis,
along R.K.;boundaries
the grain investigation,
withR.K., M.W.toand
tendency M.G.; writing—original
formation of voids. draft preparation,
R.K. and
5. M.W.; writing—review
Additionally, and editing,
another effect M.W. and
of post-weld L.Ś.; supervision,
normalizing L.Ś.”, please
is the formation of M6Cturn
andto M
the
23CCRediT
6
taxonomy for the term explanation. Authorship must
carbides in Inconel 625 alloy in the joint zone.be limited to those who have contributed substantially to
the work reported.
Author Contributions: For research articles with several authors, a short paragraph specifying their individual
Funding: This research was funded by The National Centre for Research and Development of Poland, grant
contributions must be provided. The following statements should be used “conceptualization, R.K.;
number: DZP/M-ERA.NET-2013/2309/2014.
methodology, M.W. and M.G.; formal analysis, R.K.; investigation, R.K., M.W. and M.G.; writing—original draft
preparation,
Conflicts R.K.The
of Interest: andauthors
M.W.; writing—review and editing,
declare no conflict M.W. and L.Ś.; supervision, L.Ś.”, please turn to the
of interest.
CRediT taxonomy for the term explanation. Authorship must be limited to those who have contributed
substantially to the work reported.
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