You are on page 1of 20

How to weld

duplex stainless steels


How to weld
duplex stainless steels
Austenitic-ferritic stainless steels, usually referred to as duplex
steels, combine many of the good properties of ferritic and
austenitic stainless steels.

The high chromium content in combination with Uses


nitrogen, and often also molybdenum, gives duplex • Heat exchangers
steels their superior resistance to both pitting and cre- • Water heaters
vice corrosion. The duplex structure gives very good • Pressure vessels
strength and, allied with the high corrosion resistance, • Storage tanks
very good resistance to stress corrosion. • Rotors, impellers and shafts
Thanks to this exceptional combination of strength • Digesters and other equipment in pulp and paper
and corrosion resistance, duplex steels are widely production
used in everything from tanks for corrosive media to • Cargo tanks in chemical tankers
structural components, chemical tankers and offshore • Desalination plants
applications. • Waste gas purifiers
Duplex steels are primarily intended for applications • Sea water systems
where the working temperature is from –40 to +250°C.
The weldability of duplex steels is good and all com-
mon welding methods can be used. Chemical compositions
Outokumpu EN ASTM
Table 1 shows the chemical compositions (parent and
LDX 2101 ®
1.4162 S32101
filler metals) of some duplex steels.
2304 1.4362 S32304 Matching fillers are used for welding. Fillers that are
2205 1.4462 S32205/31803 more highly alloyed can also be used. For example,
SAF 2507® 1.4410 S32750 LDX 2101, 2304 and 2205 can be welded with 2507/P100.
SAF 2507 is a trademark owed by Sandvik AB

Table 1: Chemical compositions – parent and filler metals


EN ASTM/AWS C N Cr Ni Mo Other
Plate* LDX 2101® 1.4162 S32101 0.03 0.22 21.5 1.4 0.3 5 Mn
2304 1.4362 S32304 0.02 0.10 23 4.8 0.3
2205 1.4462 S32205 0.02 0.17 22 5.7 3.1
SAF 2507™ 1.4410 S32750 0.02 0.27 25 7.0 4.0
MMA EN 1600 A5.4
LDX 2101 – – 0.04 0.14 23.5 7.0 0.4
2304 – – 0.02 0.12 24.5 9.0 <0.3
2205 22 9 3 N L R E2209 0.02 0.15 23.0 9.5 3.0
2507/P100 25 9 4 N L R E2594 0.03 0.23 25.5 10.0 3.6
Wire** EN 12072 A5.9
LDX 2101 – – 0.02 0.15 23.5 7.5 0.2
2304 – – 0.02 0.15 23.5 7.5 0.2
2205 22 9 3 N L ER2209 0.02 0.17 23.0 8.5 3.1
2507/P100 25 9 4 N L ER2594 0.02 0.25 25.0 9.5 4.0
FCW EN 12073 A5.22
LDX 2101 – – 0.02 0.14 24.0 9.0 0.6
2304 – – 0.02 0.14 24.0 9.0 0.6
2205 22 9 3 N L E2209 0.03 0.13 22.5 9.0 3.2

* Hot rolled plate, cold rolled plate, bars, pipes, pipe fittings and flanges
** MIG, TIG and SAW wire


Figure 1: Microstructure of a weld in 2205 – transition between plate and weld

Microstructure
The chemical composition of duplex steels is balanced are formed. Intermetallic phases, e.g. sigma phase, are
to ensure that, in their solution-annealed states, they formed in the 600–950°C temperature range. Ferrite
have a structure with approximately equal amounts of is re-formed at 350–525°C (embrittlement at 475°C).
ferrite and austenite. Ferrite re-formation can have an embrittling effect
Duplex steels initially solidify with a completely and a negative impact on corrosion resistance. Hence,
ferritic structure. They then undergo a phase trans- unnecessary exposure to these temperatures must be
formation in which primary and secondary austenite avoided. In normal welding, the hold time at these
grows at the ferrite’s grain boundaries. The amount of temperatures is relatively short. However, there is an
austenite is strongly dependent on composition and evident risk if the metal has to undergo subsequent
cooling rate. In the production of plates, coils, pipes, heat treatment.
etc., controlled heat treatment can be used to give a Table 3 sets out the recommended heat treatments.
50-50 balance of austenite and ferrite. However, cooling At any other temperatures than those given in the table,
conditions when welding are not as good. Cooling is stress-relieving annealing results in lower ductility and
often very rapid here and, consequently, there is little reduced corrosion resistance. Consequently, it is to be
time for austenite to form. Thus, to give a balanced avoided.
structure, filler metals are always over-alloyed with
nickel. This is strongly austenite stabilising. Nitrogen Mechanical properties
is another austenite stabilising element and is of great Duplex steels are characterised by high strength. Table 2
importance in the re-forming of austenite. However, shows typical mechanical properties of parent and weld
variations of between 20 and 70% ferrite are normal. metals (pure weld metal).
Welds with this ferrite content have good corrosion and The high tensile strength also means that the fatigue
mechanical properties. Figure 1 shows the fusion line properties are very good. However, fatigue strength is
in a 2205 joint. highly dependent on the component’s shape. The fatigue
Welding with the “wrong” filler metal (e.g. “plate properties of welded joints are also clearly inferior.
analysis”), or with no or too little filler metal (e.g. Welding method and joint type are of great significance.
narrow groove/no root gap), can give a ferrite content For example, a TIG welded joint has considerably better
of over 70%. This entails a risk of lower ductility and properties than one made with covered electrodes.
reduced corrosion resistance. Because their ductility is lower than that of austenitic
When duplex steels are subjected to temperatures steels, duplex steels are not suitable for use at low
from 350°C up to around 950°C, secondary precipitates temperatures (< –40°C).


Corrosion properties
Duplex steels offer a very wide range of corrosion pro- Detailed information on the corrosion properties of
perties. Thanks to the high chromium content, corrosion duplex steels is given in the corrosion handbook
resistance is generally very good in most environments. published by Outokumpu.
This applies to both pitting and crevice corrosion. The
high strength also means that the resistance to stress cor-
rosion is very good. Because of the low carbon content, CPT (°C)
intergranular corrosion is rarely a problem.
100 100
Generally speaking, corrosion resistance increases with
increased nickel, chromium and nitrogen content. This is 80 80
reflected in the “resistance ranking” of the duplex steels:
LDX 2101; 2304; 2205 ; SAF 2507. The pitting corrosion 60 60
resistance is shown in diagram 1.
For the most part, the corrosion resistance of a welded 40 40
joint is slightly lower than that of the parent metal. This
is primarily due to: the temperature cycle undergone by 20 20
the weld and the heat-affected zone (HAZ); the shape
0 0
of the weld surface; and, the contaminants and defects 4404 LDX 2101 2304 2205 SAF 2507 254 SMO
generated in welding. To achieve the best possible cor-
rosion resistance, the surfaces of the weld and the plate Parent metal Welded joint
must be clean and even. After welding, the weld metal
and HAZ must be pickled. Refer also to the “Pre-weld Diagram 1: Typical critical pitting temperatures (CPT) as per ASTM
cleaning” and “Post-weld cleaning” sections. G48 – parent metal and weld, brushed and pickled TIG joint

Table 2: Mechanical properties


Min.-value1) Typical values (pure weld metal)
Steel grades P H C MMA MIG TIG SAW FCAW
LDX 2101
Rp0.2 (MPa) 450 480 530 640 520 550 570 580
Rm (MPa) 650 680 700 800 710 730 750 760
Elongation A5 (%) 30 30 30 25 30 30 25 25
Impact strength (J)
+20°C 60 60 – 45 150 180 140 50
–40°C – – – 28 110 180 60 40
2304
Rp0.2 (MPa) 400 400 420 640 520 550 570 580
Rm (MPa) 630 600 600 780 710 730 750 760
Elongation A5 (%) 25 20 20 23 30 30 25 25
Impact strength (J)
+20°C 100 – – 40 150 180 140 50
–40°C 80 – – 25 110 180 60 40
2205
Rp0.2 (MPa) 460 460 480 620 550 610 590 590
Rm (MPa) 640 660 660 810 770 805 800 810
Elongation A5 (%) 25 25 20 25 30 31 29 29
Impact strength (J)
+20°C 100 – – 45 150 200 100 55
–40°C 80 – – 35 110 170 70 40
SAF 2507
Rp0.2 (MPa) 530 530 530 695 570 660 650 –
Rm (MPa) 730 750 750 895 830 860 870 –
Elongation A5 (%) 20 15 15 27 29 28 25 –
Impact strength (J)
+20°C 100 – – 80 140 190 80 –
–40°C 80 – – 55 – 170 – –

1) P = hot rolled plate, H = hot rolled coil, C = cold rolled coil


Table 3: Recommended heat treatments
LDX 2101® 2304 2205 SAF 2507™
Hot forming (C°) 900–1100 900–1100 950–1150 1025–1200
Solution heat treatment (C°) 1020–1080 950–1050 1020–1100 1040–1120
Stress-relieving annealing (C°) 1020–1100 950–1050 1020–1100 1040–1120

Shaping
Hot forming, if required, must be performed at the With all products, direct current (DC+) gives the best
temperatures given in table 3. Duplex steels are prone welding results. Nonetheless, all rutile-acid electrodes
to precipitation when they are subjected to tempera- can also be used with alternating current. However,
tures under approximately 900°C. Precipitation entails weldability is clearly inferior than it is with direct
a lowering of both ductility and corrosion resistance. current.
To reduce the quantity of precipitates, the workpiece A short arc is to be used for welding. This gives the
should undergo solution heat treatment after hot for- best stability and reduces the risk of nitrogen pick-
ming. Duplex steels soften considerably at high tempe- up. The latter can lead to pore formation and increase
ratures. This must be borne in mind during handling surface oxidation.
and when tooling up/positioning prior to heat treat-
ment. MIG welding (really MAG – welding is often carried
out with an active component in the shielding gas) is
Cold forming of duplex steels can be accomplished a particularly good method for welding sheet metal
using conventional methods. However, because of up to around 6 mm thick. Welding is usually from
the high strength, operations such as deep drawing, two sides, but sheet metal (< 4 mm) can be welded
stretch forming and spinning are more difficult than single-sided with a root backing. A spray arc or pulsed
they are with austenitic steels. current is normally used for welding. The advantage
of spray-arc welding is the higher deposition rate.
Machining of duplex steels (LDX 2101 excepted) is, However, because the weld pool is relatively large,
owing to their hardness, slightly more difficult than it position welding possibilities are limited. Drop trans-
is for austenitic steels. Tools made of high-speed steel fer is considerably more sedate and more controlled
are usually more effective than ceramic tools. with a pulsed arc. The opportunity for position weld-
ing, especially vertical-down, is thus very great. As
Welding methods the stability of a spray arc is relatively poor, a pulsed
All conventional welding methods such as MMA
arc is particularly important when welding the super
(covered electrodes), MIG/MAG, TIG, SAW, FCAW,
duplex steel, SAF 2507.
plasma and laser can be used to weld duplex steels.
The MIG method is especially suited to robot or
Welding without filler metals is only permitted where
automatic welding in all positions.
subsequent heat treatment (solution heat treatment) is
possible. If heat treatment is not carried out, there is a TIG welding is normally used for thin (up to around
great risk that the ferrite content in the weld metal will 4 mm) workpieces. It is especially common in the weld-
be too high. As a result, ductility and corrosion resis- ing of pipe joints. The method is also highly suitable
tance will be lower. for welding single-sided root beads (both with and
Property requirements, positional weldability and without root backing). Subsequent beads can then be
productivity usually determine the choice of welding welded using a method with a higher deposition rate.
method.
SAW is widely used with duplex steels. Its high pro-
MMA welding is particularly excellent for position
ductivity and beautiful weld finishes are a big plus.
welding, single-sided welding and where access is limi-
Furthermore, the SAW work environment is consider-
ted. Avesta Welding has a very wide range of covered
ably better than that of other methods. Both fume ge-
electrodes for duplex steels:
neration and radiation are minimal. The disadvantages
LDX 2101 AC/DC all positions of SAW are that it is restricted to the horizontal position
2304 AC/DC all positions and that the heat input is relatively large. Consequently,
2205-3D all positions small objects present problems. A basic agglomerated
2205-4D position welding flux, e.g. Avesta 805, must be used for SAW.
2205-2D high metal recovery
2205 Basic high impact strength requirements
2507/P100 Rutile all positions
2507/P100-4D position welding


Figure 2: Welding with FCW 2205

FCAW is suitable for material thicknesses above ap- Flux cored wire is available as LDX 2101, 2304 and
proximately 2.5 mm. Thanks to the slag that is formed, 2205 in the following variants:
positional weldability is very good. When FCW is
used, the arc and weld pool are protected by both the FCW-2D LDX 2101 welding in the flat and horizontal-
slag and the shielding gas. Drop transfer is even and vertical positions
finishes are extremely smooth and fine. FCW-2D 2304 welding in the flat and horizontal-
FCAW can advantageously be used for single-sided vertical positions
welding against a ceramic backing. This is fast and FCW-2D 2205 welding in the flat and horizontal-
efficient. At the same time, the surface properties vertical positions as well as against
on the root side are very good. For the best results, a ceramic backing in all positions
the root bead should here be welded using a slightly FCW 2205-PW position welding
lower current intensity.

Table 4: Example welding parameters for different types of joints


Method Filler Diam. (mm) Position EN/ASTM Bead Current (A) Voltage (V) Speed (cm/min)
MMA 2205 2.50 PF (3G) Root* 50– 60 20–22 4– 6
3.25 Cap 80– 95 23–25 7– 9
MMA 2507/P100 4.00 PA (1G) 125–135 24–26 15–25
MIG 2205 1.20 PA (1G) 180–200 28–30 30–40
TIG 2205 1.60 H-L 045 (6G) Root 45– 50 9–10 3– 5
TIG 2205 2.40 PA (1G) Root 100–120 16–18 5– 8
FCAW 1.20 Cap 190–210 28–30 17–22
SAW 2205 3.20 PA (1G) 400–450 30–32 40–50
SAW 2507/P100 2.40 PA (1G) 350–400 28–30 40–50
FCAW 2205 1.20 PA (1G) Root* 135–145 24–26 20–25
Cap 200–220 28–30 30–45
FCAW 2205-PW 1.20 PF (3G) Root 140–150 23–25 8–12
Cap 160–180 24–26 9–13
FCAW LDX 2101 1.20 PA (1G) Root 170–190 26–28 30–40
Cap 200–220 27–29 30–45

* Single-sided


Shielding gases
Laser, laser hybrid and plasma welding are high MIG welding of duplex steels is possible using the
productivity methods that are very suitable for duplex conventional shielding gases used with stainless steels.
steels. However, as previously stated, if a filler metal Normally, argon is used with an addition of 2% O2 or
is not used, the workpiece should be heat treated after 2–3% CO2. Both of these act as arc stabilisers. An addi-
welding. tion of around 30% helium is advantageous. It increases
Laser hybrid is a particularly interesting method. It arc energy which, in turn, increases weld pool fluidity
combines keyhole welding (laser) with arc welding and enables higher welding speeds.
(MIG/MAG, TIG or plasma). The method ensures a Using a pulsed arc, a four-component gas (Ar +30%
high productivity process that, thanks to the filler metal He + 2.5% CO2 + 0.03% NO) has given very good
and the low heat input, preserves metallurgical proper- results.
ties. Arc stability varies greatly between different arc
Nowadays, laser hybrid welding is most often per- types, different steel grades and even between different
formed using a CO2 laser or a Nd:YAG laser. With the welding machines. Table 5 sets out general recommen-
exception of the considerably better penetration, laser dations for the MIG welding of various duplex grades.
hybrid welding of thin sheets has much in common
with ordinary MIG/MAG welding. Penetration depth TIG welding is usually performed with pure argon as
is primarily determined by the laser beam’s ability to the shielding gas. Resistance to, in particular, pitting
create a keyhole. The width is dependent on the heat corrosion can be considerably raised by the addition of
transferred by the arc. up to 2% nitrogen. However, because the risk of pores
There are two variants of laser hybrid welding, name- increases with increased nitrogen content, the latter
ly, “leading” and “trailing” laser. Whichever is chosen, should not exceed 2%.
it is important that the arc and the beam are sufficiently The addition of around 30% helium markedly
close to each other for them to work in the same weld increases arc energy and thus enables a considerable
pool. For better process stability in “leading” laser increase (20–30%) in welding speed. In the welding
hybrid welding, the angle of the MIG/MAG nozzle of duplex steels, the addition of hydrogen is not to be
should be as slight as possible (i.e. nozzle in the upright recommended. In combination with the high ferrite
position). Having the arc in the leading position allows content (over 70%), this can lead to hydrogen embritt-
material from the filler wire to fill any gaps. This means lement.
that the laser beam creates a keyhole in a stable weld Single-sided root beads must be welded with a
pool. The result is an even weld with good penetration. backing gas. This is normally the same as the shiel-
In the laser-MIG/MAG process, the following ding gas. However, Formier gas (90% N2 + 10% H2)
parameters have proved to be important: torch angle, is a good alternative that also provides first-class root
“offset”, stick-out, working distance and focal length. protection while also being cheaper than pure argon.
The effect of torch angle is much the same as in con- Because only a negligible quantity of the hydrogen
ventional MIG/MAG welding. penetrates the weld metal, no negative effect has been
Spray and pulsed arcs can advantageously be used. demonstrated. A backing gas should also be used for
However, because there is no stabilising of the arc, a tack welding all the way up until weld thickness is at
short arc must not be used in laser-MIG/MAG welding. least 8 mm.

FCAW is most suitably performed using argon with


Table 5: Shielding gases for MIG, TIG, FCAW, an addition of 16–25% carbon dioxide as the shielding
plasma and laser welding gas. Welding with pure carbon dioxide is also possible,
Method Grades Shielding gases but arc stability and weld pool control are noticeably
MIG LDX 2101, 2304, 2205 1. Ar+30%He+1–3%CO2
poorer. However, compared with a mixed gas, one
2. Ar+1–2%O2 or Ar+2–3%CO2 advantage is that penetration is slightly better. Also
compared with a mixed gas, the voltage should be
2507/P100 1. Ar+30%He+1–3%CO2 increased by 2–3 volts when welding with pure carbon
2. Ar dioxide. This prevents the arc being too short.
3. Ar+30%He+1–2%N2+1–2%CO2

TIG LDX 2101, 2304, 2205, 1. Ar+2%N2 +10–30%He Plasma welding normally uses pure argon, or argon
2507/P100 2. Ar with an addition of 20–30% helium, as both the plasma
FCAW LDX 2101, 2304, 2205 1. Ar+16–25%CO2 and the shielding gas. As with TIG welding, the addition
2. 100% CO2 of 2–3% nitrogen has a positive effect on corrosion resis-
Plasma LDX 2101, 2304, 2205, 1. Ar* tance. The addition of hydrogen should be avoided.
2507/P100 2. Ar+20–30%He+1–2%N2*

Laser LDX 2101, 2304, 2205, 1. Ar


Laser welding can be carried out with pure argon,
2507/P100 nitrogen, helium or mixtures of these gases. To ensure
high-quality welds when using a CO2 laser or a
* Also as plasma gas


Nd:YAG-laser, a shielding gas is required. Because particularly to duplex steels.
interaction between the beam and the shielding gas Because of the weld pool’s slightly poorer penetra-
affects heat transfer to the workpiece, the choice of tion and fluidity (compared with standard austenites),
shielding gas in CO2 laser welding is critical. The the joint must be correctly designed to give full pene-
normal shielding gases are pure argon or, where high tration without the risk of burn-through. The groove
laser powers (1.5–2.0 kW) are used, helium. As there angle must be sufficiently wide to allow the welder
is little or no interaction between shielding gases and full control of the arc, weld pool and slag. A groove
the wavelength of the Nd:YAG laser, argon, which is angle of around 35° (i.e. somewhat larger than for
relatively cheap, is normally used. austenitic steels) is to be recommended for manual
welding.
Laser hybrid welding with a CO2 laser has demon-
General recommendations:
strated that the shielding gas need not be pure helium.
• An X-joint can advantageously be used for plate
It is sufficient that a minimum of 30% helium is added
thicknesses above approximately 15 mm.
via the MIG/MAG nozzle. For Nd:YAG laser hybrid
welding, a mixture of Ar + 30–35% He + 2–5% CO2 can • For plate thicknesses above approximately 30 mm,
advantageously be used. The mixture is added via the a double U-joint is advantageous.
MIG/MAG nozzle. The addition of helium improves • In single-sided welding, a root gap of 2–3 mm and
process stability and gives even welds. a straight edge of about 0–1 mm are recommended.
For double-sided welding, the straight edge can be
Edge preparation
increased to 1.5–2 mm.
When welding stainless steels, meticulous edge
preparation and the correct choice of joint type are • A wider root gap, 4–6 mm, should be used when
important for good results. This applies even more welding against a ceramic backing.

Figure 3 shows a number of common joint types.


Joint type 1 1. I-joint for: single-sided MMA, TIG
I-joint, t < 2.5 mm D = 1.0 – 2.0 mm MIG
D = 1.0–2.0 mm
and PAW; and, double-sided welding
Single-sided, with or without root backing D
using the same methods plus MIG and
I-joint, t < 4.0 mm D = 2.0 – 2.5 mm FCAW. MIGSuitable root protection must be
A
D = 2.0–2.5 mm used with single-sided TIG and plasma
Double-sided without root backing but
welding.
with root grinding

Joint type 2 A C 2. V-joint (t > 4 mm) for: single and


V-joint, t = 4–16 mm
D double-sided MMA and TIG welding
α = 60°–70°
C = 0.5–1.5 mm as well as double-sided MIG and
D = 2.0–4.0 mm (4–6 mm against abacking)
C FCAW. Single-sided welding is also
Single-sided, with or without root backing A
possible with FCAW, but a ceramic
V-joint, t = 4–16 mm D
backing must then be used.
α = 60°–70°
C = 2.0–2.5 mm
D = 2.5–3.5 mm
A C
Double-sided without root backing but D
with root grinding

Joint type 3 A C 3. V-joint for SAW. So that full penetra-


V-joint, t = 8–16 mm
D tion is possible, the root bead must be
α = 80°–90°
C = 3–6 mm ground precisely.
Double-sided welding without root gap, A C
but with root grinding


Joint type 4 A 4. In SAW, an X-joint is to be recommended


X-joint, t = 14–30 mm C where plate thickness exceeds 16 mm.
α = 80°–90°
C = 3–8 mm (2507/2101 3–4 mm)  To achieve best penetration when weld-
Double-sided welding without root gap, ing 2205 and 2304, the straight edge
but with root grinding C can be increased up to 8 mm. The torch
must then be slightly angled (around
15°) in the direction of welding. In this
way, thicknesses up to 20 mm can be
welded with only two beads. However,
for LDX 2101 and SAF 2507, the straight
edge should not exceed 4 mm.


#
%DGEPREPARATION
- C
%DGEPREPARATION
9

*OINTPREPARATIONS D 4ABLE
#-

.OANDJOINTTYPE 3IDES -ETHOD 4HICKNESS


-9
*OINTPREPARATIONS
 &ILLETWELD
 (ALF6 JOINT 4WOSIDES
/NEOR --!
--! 4ABLE
nMM
MM
Joint #9type 5 A  
.OROOTGAP t2 5. Edge preparation
TWOSIDES -)'
-)'
for pipe joints. Welding
V-joint, t = 4–16 mm.OANDJOINTTYPE
#nMM
! z XT
3IDES -ETHOD
is most4)'
suitably
4)'  4HICKNESS
performed using TIG or
α = 50° A
$nMM
 8 JOINT B A 4WOSIDES &#7
&#7
--! nMM 
#-9

C = 1.0–2.0 mm B  
MMA for-)'
the root bead. For in creased
D = 2.0–3.0
+
mm B   productivity,
4)' FCAW may then be used.
Single-sided without root backing
#nMM B t1 &#7
$nMM C
D C

Joint type 6 


 (ALF6 JOINT
(ALFPIPE
D C t2 6. Half
/NESIDE
/NESIDE V-joint
--! with
--! full burn-through.
nMM
nMM
Half V-joint, t = 14–30mmA  
A   -)'
-)'
α = 50° #nMM
#nMM D Where 4)'
grinding
4)'  the root presents dif-
A ficulties, the root
nMM be welded as
should
C = 1.5–2.5 mm $nMM
$nMM &#7
&#7
 8 JOINT D B C 4WOSIDES 3!7
D = 2.0–3.0 mm (4–6 mmBagainst
  
a backing) a single-sided TIG or MMA weld or,
Single-sided, with or (ALF6 JOINT
B  
without root backing 4WOSIDES --! nMM
A   t1 alternatively,
-)' as FCAW against a cera-
# # nMM
#nMM AB 4)'
.OROOTGAP
$nMM
mic backing.
&#7
In this type of joint, the
-
C distance between tacks should not
exceed --!
150 mm. nMM
This is so that shrinkage
#
 (ALF8 JOINT /NESIDE
t2
9

A   -)'
-
#nMM does not prevent
4)' full burn-through.
Joint type 7
#-


U-joint,
9
-9
$nMM
t > 20 mm  5 JOINT
A
C 4WOSIDES
&#7
--! MM
α = 10°  7ELDINGPERFORMEDAGAINSTCERAMICBACKINGROUNDTYPE 
B 7. Simple U-joint for the welding of thick
 QWERTY #-
R = 8 #9mm
  
(ALF8 JOINT A 4WOSIDES
 .ORMALLYONLYFORTHEFIRSTnRUNS&OLLOWEDBY-)' &#7 --!OR3!7
2A MM
-)'
--!
4)'
nMM
  D sections (t
-)' > 30 mm). The joint can
UIOPL
C = 2.0–2.5
-9 mm  &OROPENINGSSUCHASMANWAYS VIEWPORTSANDNOZZLES
#nMM
#nMM
 !THICKNESSABOVEMMCANBEPREPAREDASANASYMMETRICAL8 JOINT 
&#7
4)' 
advantageously be made as a symmet-
D = 2.0–2.5 mm (4–6 mm$nMM
#-9
against a backing)
$nMM t1 3!7
&#7
KJHGFDSZ
Double-sided
#9
without root backing but rical or asymmetrical double U-joint.
t
+

XCVBNM 
with#-9
root grinding
 R Root welding is most suitably carried
17%2495 +
 &ILLETWELD C out as a--!
4WOSIDES TIG or MMA
MM weld followed by,
.OROOTGAP D -)'
for example, FCAW or SAW.
)/0, 4)'
&#7
+*('&$3  $OUBLE5 JOINT B 4WOSIDES 3!7 MM
B  
!:8#6" 2 MM
.-  Pre-weld cleaning#nMM

To ensure good weldability


 &ILLETWELDand reduce the need for 4WOSIDES --! nMM
$nMM R -)'
post-weld cleaning, all joint surfaces, and the surfaces 4)'
adjoining these, must be thoroughly cleaned before C &#7
welding. Dirt, oil and grease must be removed using,
for example, a cleaning agent such as Avesta Cleaner. D
All rough edges must be completely removed by gentle
grinding. Oxides, paints and primers must be entirely
removed not only in the joint but also in the 50 mm
!ROOTLANDOFMMANDABOVEMAYREQUIRETHETORCHTOBEANGLEDTOWARDSTHEDIRECTIONOFTRAVEL
from the joint edges.
 SEEv7IDTHANDDEPTHvINCHAPTER
 7ELDINGPERFORMEDAGAINSTCERAMICBACKINGROUNDTYPE 
  .ORMALLYONLYFORTHEFIRSTnRUNS&OLLOWEDBY-)' &#7 --!OR3!7
.ORMALLYONLYFORTHEFIRSTnRUNS&OLLOWEDBY-)' &#7 --!OR3!7
 !THICKNESSABOVEMMCANBEPREPAREDASANASYMMETRICAL8 JOINT
Tack welding 4)'OR--!CANBEUSEDFORROOTRUNS'RINDINGFROMTHEBACK#MM
So that shrinkage during welding does not prevent full
 3!7CANBEUSEDFORFILLANDCAPPASSES 
burn-through, precise tack welding is extremely im-
portant. For metal thicknesses up to 6 mm, tack length
should be 10–15 mm. This should be increased to 20–25
mm for thicker workpieces. A suitable distance between
tacks is 150–200 mm.
In single-sided welding, the entire tack must be
ground away before welding. In double-sided welding,
it is sufficient to grind away the beginning and the end
of the tack. A common alternative in single-sided weld-
ing is the use of bridges or distance pieces (see figure 4).
These must be made of, and tacked with, duplex steel.
Note that gap width must be constant throughout the
joint.

Figure 4: Tack welding of thick-walled pipe using distance pieces

10
“Starts and stops”–
striking and extinguishing the arc
It is very important to use the right technique when This is most simply done using MMA or TIG welding
striking and extinguishing the arc. As regards metal- with electrode diameters of 2.50 mm and 1.60–2.40 mm
lurgical, mechanical and corrosion properties, each start respectively. As already stated, a backing gas must be
and stop is a “critical” area. used in TIG welding. Single-sided welding without
To avoid striking scars, the arc must always be struck root backing places the severest demands on even and
down in the joint. If, despite this, striking scars occur, thorough edge preparation. Figure 5 shows a correctly
they must be carefully repaired by grinding and polish- executed TIG root bead.
ing or, in the worst cases, repair welding.
Root beads must satisfy three important
In MMA welding, the arc must be extinguished care-
requirements:
fully by first making several circular movements in
the centre of the weld pool. The electrode is then to be • Correct metallurgy and structure (right root gap to
moved slowly backwards 10 mm through the weld ensure sufficient quantity of filler metal).
pool before being gently lifted. If this is done too • Correct geometry (no concavity, undercutting or
quickly, crater cracks and slag inclusions may result. lack of fusion).
Modern power sources for MIG and TIG welding
often have a so-called crater filling facility. This gives • Best possible productivity (always in relation to
smooth and controlled stops. weldability).
To remove any crater cracks and slag inclusions, each Filler beads must be deposited with the highest pos-
start and stop must be carefully ground with a suitable sible productivity. At the same time, structure and
grinding disc. mechanical properties have to be maintained. In many
cases, fill passes use the same filler metal as that used in
Planning the welding sequence root passes. High productivity welding methods may
Because it makes burn-through unnecessary, double- thus be economical for joint filling. Several common
sided welding is always to be preferred over single- choices are:
sided welding. To ensure full burn-through on the last
bead, the root side must be ground to clean metal. A • TIG root pass + MMA, MIG or SAW fill passes
grinding disc not exceeding 2 mm in width is a suit-
• MMA root pass + SAW or FCAW fill passes
able tool. If it is difficult to decide whether grinding has
reached the first bead, penetrant testing can be used. Generally speaking, welding is carried out with the
In double-sided MMA welding, electrodes with a highest possible heat input that is still consistent with
diameter of 3.25 to 4.00 mm can be used from the very maintained properties and weldability. Visual inspection
start. Single-sided welding is most simply carried out between the passes is important.
against a root backing. Single-sided root beads are Slag residues and severe welding oxide are removed
suitably welded with a 2.50 mm diameter electrode. before depositing the next layer. Otherwise, there is al-
The joint is then filled using 3.25, 4.00 or 5.00 mm elec- ways the risk of slag inclusions being left behind. A suit-
trodes. The choice of electrode diameter is determined able grinding disc must be used. To avoid damaging
by welding position. In certain cases (e.g. pipe joints) adjacent surfaces, grinding should be carried out with
single-sided welding without root backing is required. some care. Figure 6 shows deleterious grinding scars.

Figure 5: Single-sided TIG root bead Figure 6: Grinding scars

11
Interpass temperature
The cap bead is primarily intended to give the weld The recommended interpass temperature for LDX
good corrosion protection. Besides structure, surface 2101 is 150°C. Both 2304 and 2205 are slightly more
geometry can also play a critical role here. Undercut- tolerant, but should be welded below 200°C. Super
ting, unevenness, high crowns, gaps, etc. can all have duplex steels such as SAF 2507 have a far more sen-
a negative impact on corrosion resistance. Aesthetic sitive structure and, because the risk of deleterious
considerations are often also important. precipitation rises sharply with increased interpass
When using slag forming welding methods, weld temperature, should not be welded above 100°C.
reinforcements must be cleaned of all slag residues. Thermal conductivity is of the same order as that of
austenitic stainless steels, i.e. considerably lower than
Welding techniques it is for low-alloy and carbon steels. This means that,
In the flat position, there should be no significant compared to carbon steels, it takes longer to reach the
weaving. However, in the vertical-up position, weaving correct interpass temperature. The cooling rate can be
of up to 20 mm is advantageous. For the best control of increased by using compressed air. This is most suit-
arc and weld pool, welding is normally carried out with ably directed at the back of the plate or the inside of the
a torch or electrode angle of around 10° away from the pipe. Compressed air directed straight into the welded
welding direction, i.e. “backhand”. In submerged arc joint presents the risk of contamination. Cooling can
welding, the torch is not normally angled. A torch angle also be accelerated by intermittent welding or using a
of 10–15° in the welding direction (i.e. “forehand”) in- correctly planned welding sequence.
creases penetration. This allows the unbevelled edge to The interpass temperature must be measured. Some
be increased to up to around 8 mm. However, because form of thermometer or thermoelement is appropriate
LDX 2101 and SAF 2507 are slightly more sensitive to for this. Temperature crayons seldom give good results
the necessary high heat input, this increase must only and must be avoided.
be used for 2205 and 2304. Especially when using wel-
ding wire, backings are very often ceramic. Backing Heat input
shape may vary with joint type. A root gap of 4–6 mm Without negatively affecting microstructure and,
most often gives a nicely shaped root bead. Too wide a consequently, properties, 2205 can be welded using a
gap can result in a too thin root bead that, in the worst relatively high heat input. Heat inputs above 3 kJ/mm
cases, may crack because of the degree of restraint. have been used with no negative effects. Welding
Ceramic backings are frequently used for welding method, radiation, distortion and weld pool size are
stainless steel cargo tanks in chemical tankers. Here, most often the limiting factors (rather than heat input).
welding is often in difficult positions with little access LDX 2101, 2304 and, in particular, SAF 2507 must be
from both sides. welded with lower heat inputs.
Distortion General recommendations:
Broadly speaking, the coefficient of expansion of duplex 2304 max. 2.0 kJ/mm
steels is lower than that of austenitic steels. It is only 2205 max. 2.5 kJ/mm
slightly higher than that of carbon steels. Consequently, LDX 2101, SAF 2507 max. 1.5 kJ/mm
distortion during the welding of duplex steels is some-
what less than it is with austenitic steels. However, this Duplex steels should not be welded with a too low heat
does not mean that tack welding can be simplified. input. The cooling rate could then be very high, which
might result in a high ferrite content (above 70%). This
Preheating is particularly true in the welding of thick workpieces.
On the whole, stainless steels (duplex steels inclu- Theoretical minimum heat inputs are 0.5 kJ/mm
ded therein) must not be preheated before welding. for 2304 and 2205 and 0.3 kJ/mm for LDX 2101 and
Normally, welding takes place at room temperature. SAF 2507. Especially in automatic welding, heat input
At lower temperatures, preheating to a maximum of is easy to control.
50°C is advisable. This drives off any moisture that Although it is always desirable to optimise produc-
may otherwise lead to pore formation. tivity by increasing the welding parameters, heat
When welding castings, or where the workpiece input should never exceed the recommended value.
is thick or where restraint is high, preheating to a

{ }
maximum of 150°C may be advantageous. This is UxI UxI U = voltage
Heat input = –––––––––– –––––––––– = kJ/mm I = current
particularly true where the welding method has a low V x 1,000 mm/s x 1,000 V = speed
heat input (max. 0.5 kJ/mm). In these cases, a suitable
preheating method is the use of electric blankets or
similar. The use of soot-depositing flames can result in
local carbon pick-up. This reduces resistance to inter-
granular corrosion.

12
Figure 7: Storage tanks are a major end use for duplex stainless steels.

13
Figure 8: Avesta BlueOneTM being used to spray pickle a stainless steel tank.

Post-weld heat treatment which also gives a weld metal that is highly resistant
Duplex stainless steels do not normally need post-weld to cracking.
heat treatment. However, in certain situations, it may Welding to other stainless steels such as EN 1.4301
be necessary to subject the workpiece to solution heat or EN 1.4401 is also fully possible. It can be done with
treatment or stress-relieving annealing. The spinning a duplex filler metal or with Avesta P5 or Avesta 309L
of dished ends is just such an example. Shaping is here (only stainless steels that are not alloyed with molyb-
carried out in stages with intermediate heat treatment. denum).
Table 3 gives the recommended temperatures. Welding to fully austenitic steels or nickel base
The heat treatment of duplex steels requires very pre- alloys is suitably carried out using a filler metal that
cise control of both time and temperature. It must only matches the other metal, for example, Avesta P12
be carried out by qualified personnel using suitable when welding 2205 to 254 SMO.
equipment.
Post-weld cleaning
Welding duplex steels to other metals Post-weld cleaning is critical in achieving fully satis-
Duplex or austenitic filler metals such as Avesta P5 factory corrosion resistance. Clearly enough, it is thus
(309MoL) or Avesta 309L are used to weld duplex steels an integral part of the entire stainless steel welding
to carbon or low-alloy steels. As austenitic metals procedure. Despite this, post-weld cleaning is not
demonstrate a somewhat greater toughness, Avesta always standard.
P5 or 309L may be particularly suitable for welding The method and extent of cleaning is determined by
workpieces where there is a high degree of restraint the requirements imposed in respect of corrosion resist-
(t > 20 mm). A further alternative is to use Avesta P7, ance, hygiene and appearance.

14
Generally speaking, one basic requirement is that de- should be used for pickling duplex grades. Further
fects, welding oxide, organic contaminants and carbon details are available at www.avestafinishing.com or can
steel contamination must be removed from weld and be obtained directly from Avesta Finishing Chemicals.
parent metal surfaces. This can be done mechanically
(grinding, brushing, polishing, blasting) or chemically Defects
(pickling). An important rule of thumb for grinding Broadly speaking, duplex steels are no more prone to de-
is to always finish with polishing. The risk of harmful fects than other stainless steels. However, several factors
grinding scars is otherwise very great. require special attention.
The demonstrably most reliable method is a combina- • The high nitrogen content of duplex steels means
tion of mechanical and chemical cleaning, i.e. brushing poorer penetration.
with a stainless steel brush followed by pickling.
Avesta Finishing Chemicals has a complete product • Compared to austenitic steels, there is a slightly greater
programme for the pickling of stainless steel welds. It tendency to pore formation.
comprises cleaning products, pickling pastes, pickling •Arc stability, fluidity and arc control are also somewhat
sprays, pickling fluids and various items of equipment. poorer than they are for austenitic stainless steels.
Duplex steels are generally more difficult to pickle than
are austenitic steels such as 1.4401 (308L) and 1.4404 Consequently, to avoid incomplete penetration, slag
(316L). Thus, Avesta BlueOneTM and Avesta RedOneTM, inclusions and pores, the margins for welding parame-
which are comparatively strong pickling products, ters and root gaps are more restricted.

Figure 9: Incomplete penetration, MIG 2205

Figure 10: Slag inclusions, SAW 2205 Figure 11: Pores, FCW LDX 2101

15
Repair welding
All defects must be suitably repaired. Minor surface results, but is both time-consuming and costly. Hence,
defects such as spatter, slag and oxide islands can easily ferrite content is normally determined using a so-
be remedied by grinding followed by polishing using called “ferritescope” such as the Fischer Feritscope®
an at least 320 mesh disc. Note that a grinding disc in- MP30 or by calculations based on the chemical compo-
tended for stainless steel must be used. After polishing, sition. There are a number of calculation methods, e.g.
conventional pickling is to be carried out. Pickling paste DeLong and WRC-92. For duplex steels, calculation as
is most often the simplest alternative. per WRC-92 gives results that are closer to reality than
Defects must never be repaired by TIG dressing those obtained using DeLong. Figure 12 shows a WRC-
(remelting using a TIG electrode). This is because TIG 92 diagram.
dressing has the same effect as welding without filler When it is obtained by measurement, ferrite content
metal, i.e. high ferrite content. is normally expressed as a percentage. Where it is ob-
Large defects and subsurface defects require heavier tained by calculation it is usually expressed as a ferrite
grinding with a coarser grinding disc. Once the entire number (FN). A normal range is 20–70 (%/FN).
defect has been removed (which can be checked by, for
example, penetrant testing), the ground area is to be fil- Overlay welding
led using a suitable method, most often MMA welding. Duplex filler metals can be advantageously used for the
A plasma arc can be used to remove deep subsurface overlay welding of carbon steels. The duplex overlay
defects in thick workpieces. Because of the resultant is resistant to corrosion and has good wear resistance.
carbonisation, carbon arcs should not be used. The Although all welding methods can be used, those with
problem with both plasma and carbon arcs is the a high deposition rate (i.e. SAW, FCAW and MIG) are
powerful spatter. If care is not taken, this can damage normally preferred. Welding with 2205 can be direct
adjacent surfaces. The latter should be protected using, onto carbon steel. However, filler metals such as 309L
for example, Masonite or chalk paint. After gouging, or P5 can also be used for the first layer. This is some-
the area must be ground before welding can start. what more cost-efficient, especially when welding with
G?72# ?PDF  
Repair welding can be carried out at least 5 times 2507/P100.
with no negative impact on the parent metal. In overlay welding, there should be as little mixing
with the parent metal as possible. This can be a par-
Measuring ferrite content ticular problem with SAW, FCAW and MIG welding.
Ferrite content can be assessed in several ways. Point Welding parameters and technique are of great im-
counting, which is a standardised method (ASTM portance. Each run is built up on the preceding. The
3TAINLESSSTEELS
E562), is one of these. This method gives very precise arc should never be directed towards the parent metal.

.ICKELEQUIVALENT
.I # . #U 72# 
      
 





 ! 
&.










 0






 
  
!&

 


 &! 
,$8  

&.


&
 

      

#HROMIUMEQUIVALENT
#R -O .B
Figure 12: WRC-92 diagram
&IGURE72# DIAGRAMFORWELDINGCONSUMABLES

WFERRITECONTENTn&.$E,ONG
16 ANDTEMPERATURE TRANSFORMTOTALLYORPARTLY
SAWELDTHATMAYBESLIGHTLYSENSITIVETO INTOSIGMAPHASE4HISREDUCESCORROSION
RACKING4OAVOIDTHIS AFILLERWIREWITH RESISTANCEANDTOUGHNESS
Table 6. Example chemical compositions of overlay weld metals:
Chemical composition, % by weight Ferrite
Method Final layer1 Filler Layer Flux C Si Mn Cr Ni Other FN2 %3
SAW 2205 P54 1 805 0.03 0.7 1.2 21.0 13.0 Mo 2.3 5 6
2205 2 805 0.03 0.7 1.2 22.5 9.0 Mo 2.8 35 45
MMA 2205 P54 1 – 0.03 0.8 1.1 21.5 13.0 Mo 2.4 8 8
2205 2 – 0.03 0.8 0.7 22.5 9.5 Mo 2.8 25 35
MMA 2207 P52 1 – 0.03 0.8 1.1 21.5 13.0 Mo 2.4 8 8
2507/P100 2 – 0.03 0.6 1.3 24.5 10.5 Mo 3.5 25 35
FCW 2205 FCW-2D P5 1 – 0.03 0.6 1.4 22.0 12.0 Mo 2.1 15 15
FCW-2D 2205 2 - 0.03 0.7 1.1 22.5 9.5 Mo 3.1 30 40
1. Target analysis of the final layer 3. Ferrite in % using a Fischer Feritscope MP30
®

2. Ferrite as per Schaeffler-DeLong 4. Welding is also possible with 2205 or 2507/P100

How to weld duplex steels of


similar compositions
There are a number of steel grades that have composi- measurement using a “ferritescope”. In ultrasound
tions similar to those of the Outokumpu duplex steels testing, it is important that surfaces are ground flat
described above. Some general recommendations are so that defects such as pores and cracks can be
set out below. reliably detected.

Handling of filler metals


Table 7. Welding duplex steels of similar Stainless steel covered electrodes, flux cored
compositions wires and fluxes can be prone to moisture pick-
up. Avesta Welding’s consumables are supplied
Steel grades Filler metal
in packages that have been designed to resist
ASTM 329 Avesta 2205
moisture. However, for the best possible results,
AL 2003 (UNS S32003) Avesta 2205
the following storage and handling precautions are
3RE60 (S31500) Avesta 3RE60 or 2205
still recommended.
URANUS 35N, SAF 2304 Avesta 2304 or 2205
SAF 2205, Uranus 45N, remanit 4462,1903SC, Avesta 2205
AF22, VS22, Falc 223, SM 22Cr, NKCr22 Storage of unbroken packages: Covered elec-
SAF 2507, Zeron 100, DP-3W, S32760, Avesta 2507/P100 trodes, FCWs and fluxes must be stored in their
Uranus 52N+ unbroken, original packaging. Storage in opened
packaging can considerably shorten the product’s
service life. Following the “first in, first out” princi-
Inspection and quality assurance ple, storage time must be kept as short as possible.
The rules that apply to structural steels apply also to Covered electrodes and fluxes should not be stored
stainless steels (duplex included therein). The follow- longer than 5 years. Products that are over 5 years
ing are some of the relevant international standards: old should be redried before use.
Covered electrodes, FCWs and fluxes should
• ISO 5817, which gives guidelines on acceptance not be stored in direct contact with floors or outer
levels for various defects in welded joints. walls.
Storeroom temperature must be kept as even as
• EN 288 and ASME IX, which describe the approval possible (± 5°C) and should not fall below 15°C.
of welding procedures. The relative air humidity should not exceed 50%.

However, duplex steels are used in applications Handling of opened packages: Electrodes that
where the strength and corrosion requirements are remain unused at the end of a shift should be
very severe. There is thus every reason to be extra replaced in their packaging and resealed. Alterna-
careful from beginning to end. Welding oxide, spatter, tively, they can be put in a warm heating cabinet
striking scars and grinding scars must be removed to at 60–70°C. The relative air humidity should not
achieve the correct corrosion resistance. For the best exceed 50%.
fatigue resistance, the weld surface must be even with Flux that has not been used should be stored in a
no sharp edges. heating cabinet at 60–70°C.
Nondestructive testing is an integral part of the
examination of welded joints. Suitable methods are Handling during welding: It is an advantage if
visual inspection, penetrant testing (PT), radiographic welding can be carried out at room temperature
testing (RT), ultrasound testing (UT) and ferrite content and low relative air humidity. Covered electrodes,

17
Health and safety
FCWs and fluxes should be used at the same rate The fumes and radiation given off during welding can be
as they are unpacked – preferably within 24 hours. hazardous to health. Spatter, molten metal and arcs can
During shifts, electrodes must be kept as dry as pos- cause burns and fires. Furthermore, electrical equipment is
sible. If the climate so demands, they should be kept used. If it is not handled correctly, there is the risk of elect-
warm in a portable heat-retaining container or similar. rical shock. Thus, it is of the greatest importance that wel-
One alternative is to use smaller packs, e.g. half or ders and supervisors are aware of all the potential dangers.
quarter capsules.
• Ensure that ventilation is adequate and that the
Rebaking: Electrodes and flux cored wires that have welding site has an extractor system that removes
sustained slight moisture damage can be rebaked for fumes and gases from the welder’s “breathing zone”.
around 3 hours at, respectively, 250–280°C and 150°C. • When welding in confined spaces, use respiratory
Heating and cooling must both be gradual. Items protective equipment or a compressed air line
should not be rebaked any more than three times. breathing apparatus. Use safety equipment for
Fluxes can be rebaked for 2 hours at 250–300°C. hands, eyes and body, e.g.: gloves; helmet or face
Procedures that have been approved for carbon steel mask with filter glass; safety boots; apron; and arm
electrodes are also completely satisfactory for stainless and shoulder guards.
steel electrodes. This is because the latter are not as
prone to moisture pick-up. • Keep the workplace and equipment clean and dry.

Recycling: Because they can be reused, leftover pro- • Regularly check that safety clothing and equipment
ducts and scrap are valuable. Wherever possible, pro- are in good condition.
ducts and packaging must be recycled in accordance • As far as possible, insulate all conducting elements.
with local regulations.
Further information on each product group is contained
in Avesta Welding’s material safety data sheets. These
can be downloaded from Avesta Welding’s website,
www.avestawelding.com, or ordered from Avesta
Welding’s distributors and retailers.

Figure 13: Order and tidiness are essential for a good work environment.
Photo: The Karl Kremsmüller Welding Academy, Austria

18
Figure 14: Storage tanks in chemical tankers are often made of duplex stainless steels.

All rights reserved. Contents subject to change without warning or notification. Great care has been taken to ensure that the contents of this publication
are correct. However, Avesta Welding and its subsidiaries cannot accept responsibility for errors or for information that is found to be misleading.
Suggestions for, or descriptions of, working methods or of the use, treatment or machining of products are for information only and Avesta Welding
and its subsidiaries can accept no liability in respect thereof. Before using products supplied or manufactured by the company, customers should satisfy
themselves of product suitability.

19
10601EN-GB, Centrum Tryck, Avesta 2006.

Avesta Welding AB
P.O. Box 501, Koppardalen
SE- 774 27 Avesta, sweden
Tel: +46 (0) 226 815 00
Fax: +46 (0) 226 815 75
info@avestawelding.com
www.avestawelding.com

You might also like