# Influence of Different Frequency Pulse on Weld Bead Phase Ratio in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding by Ferritic Stainless Steel AISI-409L

Authors: R. Venkatesh; S. Manivannan; S. Kaliappan; S. Socrates; S. Sekar; Pravin P. Patil; L. Natrayan; Melkamu Beyene Bayu
Journal: Journal of Nanomaterials
 (2022)

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## Abstract

The objective of the present experimental work is to obtain an appropriate welding parameter on pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) ferritic stainless steel AISI 409L with a thickness of 4.5 mm. Frequency affected penetration, and the ratio of bead width to penetration (aspect ratio) is the main objective of the research. A Taguchi L9 orthogonal array with three level four factors was chosen to execute the bead on plate welding. It leads to optimize the input process parameters on main effect plot via analysis of variance, and it has imposed to determine their contribution level of each parameter with respect to responses. Taguchi optimized conditions for butts weld with the pulsed TIG and its surface morphology, and mechanical characteristics of AISI 409L weld was investigated. A full penetration with an optimal aspect ratio was accomplished using high-frequency pulsing, according to the findings. The mechanical properties were characterized using Vickers microhardness and tensile tests on the base material and weld metals. Microstructural study revealed that these variables have a greater impact on the bead profile. Pulsed TIG showed maximum UTS of 445 MPa and a minimum of 385 MPa, with an average of three samples of 415 MPa. The weld metal in all of the zones had influenced superior tensile strength (UTS) as compared to base metal, according to the findings. The obtained strain percentage for both butt and TIG welds, however, was smaller than that of the parent metal. The formation of martensitic was attributed for the higher tensile strength with minimized ductility of the pulsed TIG welds. Furthermore, results on the hardness are in concurrence with the tensile experiments, as the zone for fusion has a higher hardness than the base metal. Corrosion behavior of the parent metal and welded specimen was analyzed using a potentio-dynamic polarization technique. The electrochemical behavior of base material and weld samples confirmed that the overall corrosion resistance is better in parent material than the other zones.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Welding is the most common technique to join the two similar or dissimilar materials by heat and/or pressure to fuse by surface contact between the materials on various industrial fabrication applications like sinks, containers for chemical and transport industries, food processing, and fasteners. The samples are joined by the technique to melt at the interface during welding influence permanent union to be established following solidification. The filler material is needed to be used to create a weld pool effect on molten material, which solidifies to make a good bonding between the surfaces. The modified microstructure results, based the mechanical properties, are to be evaluated. The hardness of weld zone may be varied due to the lack of solidification; oxidation during the high temperature leads crack tendency on the weld joint. All have an impact on a material’s weldability. The efficiency of pulsed TIG welding parameters was examined by Chennaiah et al. [1]. They claimed that distortion is the primary issue with thin sections. Fusion zone grain refinement, reduced heat sensitivity with minimized area of HAZ, low deformation on high residual stress, and limited segregation are the metallurgical benefits of pulsed TIG welding [2]. Indira Rani and Marpu [3] studied the effect of 70-74 amps current and 700-760 rpm travel speed with 3 to 7 Hz pulse frequency on weld joint. They found that both yield and tensile strengths of weld joint are similar to parent metal. It was due to the connection failure on heat-affected zone in the weldments. The laser, tungsten inert gas arc, and hybrid tungsten inert gas arc welding are fusion welding technologies that are similar to low-heat-input welding [4]. It was due to the reason for high power density, these techniques generate less metallurgical distortion in the work piece and, as a result, produce higher-quality welds than other processes [5]. Finally, using the pulsed TIG welding process is to rectify the inadequacy of thermal and mechanical characteristics [6]. The scope of this present study is to find the optimum input process parameter for GTAW of ferritic stainless steel AISI 409 with a thickness of 4.5 mm. It characterized study on the micro and macrostructural aspects of welded samples and measured the bead shape (using welding expert software). Taguchi analysis is imposed to optimize input process parameters by main effect plots, while ANOVA is implemented to determine the contribution level percentage for each element characterized with corresponding responses.


## 2. Experiment Design Utilizing the Taguchi Method

A 4 factor–3 level Taguchi design was utilized in this investigation, resulting in 8 degrees of freedom (DOF) [DOF=no.offactorsno.oflevels]. In the present 4×3 design combinations, full factorial experimentation necessitates (34=81) total experiments, which is laborious and time demanding. Hence, instead of 81 experiments, Taguchi L9 orthogonal array is utilized to analyze the main impacts in above-mentioned (9) experiments. The optimum value is calculated using the Taguchi method by the signal to noise ratio (S/N ratio). It is categorized into three major systems such as lower is better, nominal is better, and higher is better. Performance factors like bead width and depth of penetration were chosen in the present investigation [7]. Bead width is defined as a nondesirable parameter, while depth of penetration is regarded good. As a result seen from S/N ratio graph, the lower the better criterion was chosen for the aspect ratio (W/P). For the value as lower is the better criteria, the S/N ratio equation is as follows:
(1)SN=−10log101n∑ni=1Yi2,where n is the number of times an experimental combination has been repeated and Yi denotes the performance value of the ith experiment. The mean value of the S/N ratio has computed at each and every level of the four parameters [8]. The optimum level of related factor has chosen as the one with the higher is the best for mean (S/N) value among all three levels.


## 3. Experimental Procedure

The ferritic stainless steel AISI409L with 4.3 mm thickness has been considered for the study. Its chemical composition is confirmed by using optical emission spectroscopy which is noted in Table1. Five samples (100mm×50mm×4.3mm) were prepared from rolled plate. Prepared plates were welded with a Kemppi Master make TIG MLS 4000 series and a pulsed current GTAW method [9]. During the welding process, argon shielding gas supplied with the flow rate of 10-15 lpm. The experiments in this study were designed by ANNOVA Taguchi design (L9). The 9 investigations were obtained by means of L9 orthogonal array to examine the effect on impacting weld process factors [10]. The influence of low and high frequency on the process variables was investigated in a total of 18 trials. The four most significant PCGTAW parameters were chosen [11]. The range of each process parameter level was determined using trial welds, and the process parameters employed, like IB, IP, peak, and frequency, are detailed in Table 1. Before welding, the heat input necessary for each welding experiment was calculated using the process parameters listed above to confirm the input (heat) having the allowable boundary. The following equation is used to compute input heat [12].
(2)HI=ƞImxVSJ/mm.Table 1
Chemical compositions of AISI 409L using OES.
ElementCCrNiNbCuSiMnPSCoTiFeWt. %0.0211.50.30.020.10.41.00.020.40.020.03Bal.It was calculated from applied current and pulsed high to low frequency during PCGTAW; avg current has used to measure the input heat. The below equation is used to compute the mean currentIm.
(3)Im=Ip+Ibxtbtp+tb.Here,Ip denotes the peak current, Ib denotes the base current, and tp and tb denote the peak and base current durations, respectively. PCGTA welding has performed on 409L plates under high frequency based on the different levels of parameters developed utilizing the L9 orthogonal array [13]. In the investigation, peak frequency levels such as 150, 200, and 250 Hz were used. Table 2 lists the input process parameter with their interaction for the HF. Wire EDM was used to cut samples of 25 mm length from all of the weld beads in order to examine the crossed section and assess the bead type profile [14]. The prepared samples are polished according to surface morphology examinations. The prepared test samples are etched by Vilella reagent (3 g picric acid +15 ml hydrochloric acid +200 ml ethanol) and bead profiles were studied with a Leica Inverted microscope. Welding expert software was from Strauss Inc. [15]. Table 1 shows the chemical compositions of AISI 409L using optical emission spectroscopic (OES) techniques (Test Point, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India).Table 2
Taguchi design: level and factors.
Factors/levelPeak current (Ip) in ampsBase current (Ib) in ampsPeak in (%)Low frequency (f) in HzHigh frequency (f) in HzLevel 120060406150Level 222080508200Level 32401006010250In the studies, TIG welding with a pulsed DC mode was utilized because it concentrates the heat in one cycle to complete the weld and allows solidification in the next cycle. This experiment used tungsten electrodes with a diameter of 1.6 mm that had been thoriated [16]. The electrode’s end prepared through grinding with tip dia down to 2/3 of its actual size, and then, it is striking an arc on a fragment piece of material. The ball forms at the electrode’s end. In general, an electrode that has small and welding current has produces an abnormally huge ball. However, the electrode that is too large will produce no ball at all [17].A number of experimental tests were conducted prior to the real experiment to determine the proper parameter range in which welding could be performed without apparent defects such as undercutting and porosity. After the trail welds on the AISI 4 09L plates were completed, they were allowed to cool before removing the welded area with a wire brush and cleaning it [18]. In addition (100×50×4.5mm3), crosssection specimens were cut from each sample for microstructural research and microhardness evaluation. Crosssection of the welded specimen has placed and polished with different grades (1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0, and 5/0) of emery polishing paper successively before micro and macroanalytical measurement. Microhardness was assessed after the obtained samples were etched with electrolytic reagent and used for micro and macrostructural studies [19].L9 plates were allowed to cool before the welded portion was removed and cleaned with a wire brush. In addition (100×50×4.5mm3), crosssection specimens were cut from each sample for microstructural research and microhardness evaluation [20]. Crosssection of the welded specimen has placed and polished with different grades (1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0, and 5/0) of emery polishing paper successively before micro and macroanalytical measurement. Microhardness was assessed after the obtained samples were etched with electrolytic reagent and used for micro and macrostructural studies. Microhardness was assessed after the obtained samples were etched with electrolytic reagent and used for micro and macrostructural studies. The tensile test samples are prepared as per ASTM E8 Standards, the Tinius Olsen makes electromechanical configured UTM machine used for mechanical characteristic evaluation. The hardness variance in the parent metal (BM), heat affected zone (HAZ), and weld meta (WM) regions is determined using a micro-Vickers hardness tester [21].


## 4. Result and Discussion

Welding of AISI 409L samples was done in this investigation utilizing a pulsed TIG welding method with three levels of four parameters, 120 mm/min welding speed, and argon as a shielding gas. This study is carried out in two stages [22]. Whereas in the first phase, beads are created on an AISI 409L plate, let to cool, and then, micro and macroanalysis is performed to determine the most optimized parameter among them. Weld joint and microstructure were produced once the optimal parameter was acquired [23]. The mechanical parameters of this welded specimen, such as tensile and hardness surveys, were examined. The finished welded sample and base material were also subjected to electrochemical tests.


### 4.1. Macrostructural Analysis

For welding expert equipment, samples were prepared according to established metallographic processes. The bead on plate welds revealed good weld beads and satisfactory weld quality. All of the sample’s macrostructures are observed in 50x magnification and are shown here, together with penetration depth and variation in bead width, in order to determine the best aspect ratio [24]. The crosssectional macrographs of the bead profile have been seen with the following conditions based on penetration rate, width, aspect ratio, and input heat depicted in Figure 1 by low-frequency pulsing. According to the basis of the macrostructure, it can be assumed that PCGTA welding will produce superior quality welds with no lack of surface or defects on subsurface. It was also observed that using the parameters specified in experiment 8, a 4.4 mm maximum penetration could be reached. The amount of heat necessary to achieve this penetration has been discovered as 843 J/mm [25]. The results showed that in the five experiments, on 4 mm penetration could be obtained by trials 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. In trial 4, the minimal aspect ratio was 2.25.Figure 1
The welded specimen at different frequency parameter.


### 4.2. High-Frequency Pulsing

Figure2 shows the crosssectional macrograph view of the bead profile, as well as their penetration rate, width of weld, aspect ratio, and input heat. On the basis of the macrostructure, it can be assumed that PCGTA welding will produce optimum quality welds with no surface or subsurface defects [26]. It was also observed that using the parameters specified in experiment 9, the maximum 4.5 mm penetration could be reached. The amount of heat necessary to achieve this penetration was discovered by 838 J/mm. The results showed that in the five experiments, 4 mm penetration rate could be achieved by 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 trials. In trial 4, there is a minimum aspect ratio of 1.93.Figure 2
Macrograph and bead profile of PC-GTAW based on penetration rate in mm (P), width of weld in mm (W), depth to width ratio of weld (W/P), and input heat (HI) in J/mm (50x magnification).


### 4.3. Taguchi Analysis

#### 4.3.1. S/N Ratio Analysis and Main Effects Plot

In order to obtain the optimal aspect ratio, the results were subjected to a signal to noise ratio study. As previously stated, the superior criterion for aspect ratio was chosen. Tables3 illustrates the actual S/N ratio values for all the variance with respect to responses [27]. Table 4 shows the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs. To determine the S/N ratio for each input level, the average of S/N ratios at corresponding levels was determined. Regardless of the criteria, the level-factor with the higher mean S/N ratio was selected as the condition of optimum level input parameter [28].Table 3
Taguchi experimental results with their responses related to HF pulsing for bead geometry.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.27-10.2911.872.25466.920080502002.23-6.96611.824.2621.25200100602502.31-7.2722.264.174922060502501.93-5.71111.814.272822080601502.44-7.74781.824.26777.3220100402002.33-7.34711.684.1169524060602002.47-7.85391.94.3284524080402502.40-7.6042.364.1695240100501502.44-7.7472.124.52893.2Table 4
Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.29-10.2911.872.245020080502002.50-6.96611.823.56607200100602502.48-7.27222.264.14744.822060502502.25-5.71111.814.25625.622080601502.44-7.74781.824.26783.2220100402002.26-7.34711.684.09700.724060602002.59-7.85391.94.2184124080402502.30-7.60422.364.47843240100501502.65-7.74782.124.16671.1


#### 4.3.2. Low-Frequency Pulsing

Figure3 represents the main impacts graphs on the S/N ratios. (a) Table 5 shows the response table for the S/N values of aspect ratio. Combination of optimum input level-factors was interpreted by the response table corresponding to main effect plots. The most important parameters that determine the aspect ratio are frequency and peak current [29].Figure 3
Main effects plot for S/N ratios based on aspect ratios for PC GTAW: (a) high frequency; (b) low frequency.
(a)(b)Table 5
Response table: S/N ratios (low-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.731-8.551-8.220-8.8522-7.291-7.647-7.822-7.7693-7.988-7.812-7.968-7.389Delta1.4390.9040.3981.463Rank2341


#### 4.3.3. High-Frequency Pulsing

Table6 depicts the mean S/N values on the aspect ratio (W/P) for each input level parameters, as illustrated in Figure 3. Table 7 shows the optimum parameters for a reduced aspect ratio. When looking at the mean S/N signals in the response table, it is clear that peak percent, frequency, IP, and IB, attained in descending order of significance, had a largest impact on aspect ratio [30]. Table 8 shows the parameter levels that have been optimized.Table 6
Response table: S/N ratios (high-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.176-7.952-8.414-8.5962-6.935-7.439-6.808-7.3893-7.735-7.456-7.625-6.863Delta1.2410.5131.6061.733Rank3421Table 7
Optimized input parameters: lower aspect ratio (AR-HF pulse).
S. no.FactorsLevelsValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak in %2504Pulse frequency in HZ3250Table 8
Optimized parameters for lower aspect ratio (AR) in LF pulsing.
S. no.FactorLevelValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak (%)2504Pulse frequency in Hz310


### 4.4. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)

ANOVA optimized results for HF pulsing and LF pulsing are shown in Figure4. The effectiveness and contribution percentage influence of each component on the effect of bead geometry (W/P) - AISI 409L were determined using ANOVA at a 5% level of significance. Frequency had 20.1% influences on aspect ratio, followed by percent peak with a 32.08 percent significance, then peak current percent (20.1 percent), and base current percent (20.1 percent) (7.7 percent). Table 9 shows the ANOVA results for aspect ratio of LF pulsing. Table 10 shows the ANOVA results for aspect ratio of HF pulsing.Figure 4
ANOVA optimized results for (a) HF pulsing and (b) LF pulsing.
(a)(b)Table 9
ANOVA results for aspect ratio of LF pulsing.
SourcesDOFAdj SSAdj MSF valueP valueA20.294160.14708∗∗B20.114020.05701∗∗C20.080690.04034∗∗D20.266420.13321∗∗Error0∗∗Total80.75529Table 10
ANOVA results for aspect ratio of HF pulsing.
SourcesDFAdj SSAdj MSF valueP valueA20.206020.10301∗∗B20.078690.03934∗∗C20.328090.16404∗∗D20.409620.20481∗∗Error0∗∗Total81.02242


### 4.5. Analysis of Variance

After the comparison of outcomes related to LF and HF current pulsing approaches, it is clear that in HF-PCGTAW, the arc is better focused when higher welding speeds and frequencies are used. Furthermore, compared to low-frequency pulsed GTA, the HF pulsed GTA technique is better to control over the optimum penetration rate with low input heat. With a heat input of 838 J/mm, they observed a higher depth of 4.5.2 mm [31]. The faster the pulse, the faster the travel speed, and hence, the higher the weld quality. The difference in welding speed between the two procedures is thought to be the reason for this. As a result of the greater frequency, less time is spent welding in a specific spot, lowering the heat input [32]. As a result, HF-PCGTAW saves a significant amount of energy, increasing productivity. The production of undesired phases is limited when the input heat on the fusion zone was reduced, which enhances the weld characteristics. When the comparison on the major effects plots of LF and HF on PCGTAW was discovered by IB plots for both approaches had nearly the same pattern [33]. This is because the effect of base current is limited to maintaining a steady arc. If the peak percent is higher, the present pulse will stay on for a longer time [34]. Because the heat required to melt the parent metal is supplied during the peak pulse, when the peak percent is higher, more heat is delivered. As a result, there is better penetration and a wider bead width. As a result, peak percent is the most influential metric that is also observed [35].


#### 4.5.1. Microstructure of Weld Samples

The plate was sectioned in the transverse direction after welding, and samples were made and polished with different grades of abrasive emery sheet; additional polishing was done with diamond polishing using 1 m diamond paste. The samples are polished and etched by Vilella reagent (30%) (3 g picric acid +15 ml hydrochloric acid +200 ml ethanol and dual viewed under a Leica DM750 Microscope.


#### 4.5.2. Microscopic Images for Different Regions

The following are the observations made for a sample for their regions termed parent metal region, heat impacted, and fusion zone. All of the images were taken at a magnification of 50x. As demonstrated in Figure5, delta-ferrite combined with needle-martensite forms in the pulsed TIG weld fusion zone (d). Because of the autogenous and single-pass heat cycle, a uniform phase distribution throughout the weld of fusion zone has expected in the pulsed TIG weld [36]. The presence of ferrite and martensite in the microstructure is confirmed by the pulsed TIGW fusion zone [37]. The presence of delta-ferrite combined with martensite can be seen in the HA zone of welds.Figure 5
Surface morphology: (a) collective view, (b) HAZ, and (c) pulsed TIG weld.


### 4.6. Mechanical Properties

#### 4.6.1. Tensile Testing Results

Mico-Vickers hardness and transverse tensile testing has been obtained to compare the characteristics of mechanical parameters of the pulsed TIGW samples. The tensile samples were made as per the standard of ASTM E8 M-04 (gauge length and width of 25 and 6 mm), as illustrated in Figure6. The tensile test was carried out by a Tinius Olsen universal testing machine with a capacity of 50 KN eletromechanical controlled crosshead speed (strain rate) of 1 mm/min [38]. The tensile strength values of optimized samples, such as ultimate tensile strength and elongation rate, are shown in Table 11.Figure 6
ASTM E8 standard specimen dimensions for tensile testing.Table 11
Tensile test specimen UTS and % elongation.
Specimen noUltimate strength (MPa)% total elongation144526.2421.426.5338524.2Average41525.56Pulsed TIG discovered a maximum UTS of 445 MPa and a minimum of 385 MPa. 415 MPa is the average of three samples. The welded metal in all joints had a higher UTS compared to parent metal, according to the findings. Despite the fact that all of the samples failed by the parent metal, the samples’ strength varies. The percentage strain obtained for both welds, however, was smaller than that of the base metal. The martensitic development was blamed for the higher UTS and decreased ductility of the pulsed TIG welds. Furthermore, the hardness results are consistent with the tensile experiments, as the fusion zone has a higher hardness than the parent metal. AISI 409L by GTAW samples were exhibited more brittle in nature due to the formation of lathe martensite phases which is responsible in increasing material strength [39].


#### 4.6.2. Vickers Microhardness Test

The test conditions are as follows: diamond indenter with a 500-gram load and a 10-second dwell duration. The Vickers microhardness test was conducted in accordance with ASTM E92 standard.The Vickers hardness of the pulsed TIG weld samples is measured using the Matsuzawa MMTX-7 at KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India, as mentioned in Figure7. The micro-Vickers hardness number for the welded place ranged from 220 to 270 HV, while the base metal’s average hardness was 160 HV. The transformation of microstructure phase from ferritic structure to martensitic structure was attributed to the increased hardness of the pulsed TIG weld zone [40]. The pulsed TIG weld fusion zone had a consistent hardness distribution, with slightly reduced hardness towards the start to the center. In the pulsed TIG weldment, low solidification rate was found on the center of the weld; it results in more grain growth and less martensitic transformation. The transformation to martensitic structure with fine grain refinement was placed via HAZs the weld, which has response for the increased hardness in HA Zone as compared to parent metal. The martensitic transition and grain refinement occurred in the HAZs weld, resulting in improved hardness in HA zone compared to parent metal.Figure 7
Hardness variation of BM, HAZ, and FZ.


### 4.7. Corrosion Studies

#### 4.7.1. Potentio-dynamic Polarization Test

The corrosion rate is calculated using a potentio-dynamic polarization test for the parent metal and weld region, as seen in Figure8. The electrochemical corrosion studies were conducted in accordance with ASTM G199–09 standard.Figure 8
Polarization curve for (a) weld metal and (b) base metal.Corrosion tests on the welded samples were carried out using a VersaSTAT 4, (AMETEK, KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India) electrochemical workstation. A three-electrode electrochemical cell system was used in this study. The reference electrode (SSE) was a Ag/AgCl saturated in KCl, and the auxiliary electrode has a platinum electrode. Working electrode was the sample under test. PDP (potentio-dynamic polarization) was used to investigate corrosion and its pace. The 3.5 percent NaCl solution was exposed to a surface area of 0.07065cm2 of base materials and weld nuggets. The rate of corrosion of the base material is lower than the rate of corrosion of the weld metal. As a result, the corrosion resistance of the base material is larger than the resistance to corrosion of the weld metal. The presence of martensite reduces the resistance to general corrosion, but it also reduces the pitting potential as the martensite content rises. That could be the reason for the decrease in weld metal corrosion resistance.


## 4.1. Macrostructural Analysis

For welding expert equipment, samples were prepared according to established metallographic processes. The bead on plate welds revealed good weld beads and satisfactory weld quality. All of the sample’s macrostructures are observed in 50x magnification and are shown here, together with penetration depth and variation in bead width, in order to determine the best aspect ratio [24]. The crosssectional macrographs of the bead profile have been seen with the following conditions based on penetration rate, width, aspect ratio, and input heat depicted in Figure 1 by low-frequency pulsing. According to the basis of the macrostructure, it can be assumed that PCGTA welding will produce superior quality welds with no lack of surface or defects on subsurface. It was also observed that using the parameters specified in experiment 8, a 4.4 mm maximum penetration could be reached. The amount of heat necessary to achieve this penetration has been discovered as 843 J/mm [25]. The results showed that in the five experiments, on 4 mm penetration could be obtained by trials 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. In trial 4, the minimal aspect ratio was 2.25.Figure 1
The welded specimen at different frequency parameter.


## 4.2. High-Frequency Pulsing

Figure2 shows the crosssectional macrograph view of the bead profile, as well as their penetration rate, width of weld, aspect ratio, and input heat. On the basis of the macrostructure, it can be assumed that PCGTA welding will produce optimum quality welds with no surface or subsurface defects [26]. It was also observed that using the parameters specified in experiment 9, the maximum 4.5 mm penetration could be reached. The amount of heat necessary to achieve this penetration was discovered by 838 J/mm. The results showed that in the five experiments, 4 mm penetration rate could be achieved by 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 trials. In trial 4, there is a minimum aspect ratio of 1.93.Figure 2
Macrograph and bead profile of PC-GTAW based on penetration rate in mm (P), width of weld in mm (W), depth to width ratio of weld (W/P), and input heat (HI) in J/mm (50x magnification).


## 4.3. Taguchi Analysis

### 4.3.1. S/N Ratio Analysis and Main Effects Plot

In order to obtain the optimal aspect ratio, the results were subjected to a signal to noise ratio study. As previously stated, the superior criterion for aspect ratio was chosen. Tables3 illustrates the actual S/N ratio values for all the variance with respect to responses [27]. Table 4 shows the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs. To determine the S/N ratio for each input level, the average of S/N ratios at corresponding levels was determined. Regardless of the criteria, the level-factor with the higher mean S/N ratio was selected as the condition of optimum level input parameter [28].Table 3
Taguchi experimental results with their responses related to HF pulsing for bead geometry.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.27-10.2911.872.25466.920080502002.23-6.96611.824.2621.25200100602502.31-7.2722.264.174922060502501.93-5.71111.814.272822080601502.44-7.74781.824.26777.3220100402002.33-7.34711.684.1169524060602002.47-7.85391.94.3284524080402502.40-7.6042.364.1695240100501502.44-7.7472.124.52893.2Table 4
Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.29-10.2911.872.245020080502002.50-6.96611.823.56607200100602502.48-7.27222.264.14744.822060502502.25-5.71111.814.25625.622080601502.44-7.74781.824.26783.2220100402002.26-7.34711.684.09700.724060602002.59-7.85391.94.2184124080402502.30-7.60422.364.47843240100501502.65-7.74782.124.16671.1


### 4.3.2. Low-Frequency Pulsing

Figure3 represents the main impacts graphs on the S/N ratios. (a) Table 5 shows the response table for the S/N values of aspect ratio. Combination of optimum input level-factors was interpreted by the response table corresponding to main effect plots. The most important parameters that determine the aspect ratio are frequency and peak current [29].Figure 3
Main effects plot for S/N ratios based on aspect ratios for PC GTAW: (a) high frequency; (b) low frequency.
(a)(b)Table 5
Response table: S/N ratios (low-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.731-8.551-8.220-8.8522-7.291-7.647-7.822-7.7693-7.988-7.812-7.968-7.389Delta1.4390.9040.3981.463Rank2341


### 4.3.3. High-Frequency Pulsing

Table6 depicts the mean S/N values on the aspect ratio (W/P) for each input level parameters, as illustrated in Figure 3. Table 7 shows the optimum parameters for a reduced aspect ratio. When looking at the mean S/N signals in the response table, it is clear that peak percent, frequency, IP, and IB, attained in descending order of significance, had a largest impact on aspect ratio [30]. Table 8 shows the parameter levels that have been optimized.Table 6
Response table: S/N ratios (high-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.176-7.952-8.414-8.5962-6.935-7.439-6.808-7.3893-7.735-7.456-7.625-6.863Delta1.2410.5131.6061.733Rank3421Table 7
Optimized input parameters: lower aspect ratio (AR-HF pulse).
S. no.FactorsLevelsValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak in %2504Pulse frequency in HZ3250Table 8
Optimized parameters for lower aspect ratio (AR) in LF pulsing.
S. no.FactorLevelValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak (%)2504Pulse frequency in Hz310


## 4.3.1. S/N Ratio Analysis and Main Effects Plot

In order to obtain the optimal aspect ratio, the results were subjected to a signal to noise ratio study. As previously stated, the superior criterion for aspect ratio was chosen. Tables3 illustrates the actual S/N ratio values for all the variance with respect to responses [27]. Table 4 shows the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs. To determine the S/N ratio for each input level, the average of S/N ratios at corresponding levels was determined. Regardless of the criteria, the level-factor with the higher mean S/N ratio was selected as the condition of optimum level input parameter [28].Table 3
Taguchi experimental results with their responses related to HF pulsing for bead geometry.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.27-10.2911.872.25466.920080502002.23-6.96611.824.2621.25200100602502.31-7.2722.264.174922060502501.93-5.71111.814.272822080601502.44-7.74781.824.26777.3220100402002.33-7.34711.684.1169524060602002.47-7.85391.94.3284524080402502.40-7.6042.364.1695240100501502.44-7.7472.124.52893.2Table 4
Taguchi L9 orthogonal array and experimental results of LF pulsing for bead geometry and their corresponding S/N values and heat inputs.
S. no.IpIbPeak%Frequency (Hz)ARSNRA1MEAN1Depth (mm)Heat input (J/mm)20060401503.29-10.2911.872.245020080502002.50-6.96611.823.56607200100602502.48-7.27222.264.14744.822060502502.25-5.71111.814.25625.622080601502.44-7.74781.824.26783.2220100402002.26-7.34711.684.09700.724060602002.59-7.85391.94.2184124080402502.30-7.60422.364.47843240100501502.65-7.74782.124.16671.1


## 4.3.2. Low-Frequency Pulsing

Figure3 represents the main impacts graphs on the S/N ratios. (a) Table 5 shows the response table for the S/N values of aspect ratio. Combination of optimum input level-factors was interpreted by the response table corresponding to main effect plots. The most important parameters that determine the aspect ratio are frequency and peak current [29].Figure 3
Main effects plot for S/N ratios based on aspect ratios for PC GTAW: (a) high frequency; (b) low frequency.
(a)(b)Table 5
Response table: S/N ratios (low-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.731-8.551-8.220-8.8522-7.291-7.647-7.822-7.7693-7.988-7.812-7.968-7.389Delta1.4390.9040.3981.463Rank2341


## 4.3.3. High-Frequency Pulsing

Table6 depicts the mean S/N values on the aspect ratio (W/P) for each input level parameters, as illustrated in Figure 3. Table 7 shows the optimum parameters for a reduced aspect ratio. When looking at the mean S/N signals in the response table, it is clear that peak percent, frequency, IP, and IB, attained in descending order of significance, had a largest impact on aspect ratio [30]. Table 8 shows the parameter levels that have been optimized.Table 6
Response table: S/N ratios (high-frequency pulse).
LevelsIpIb%peakF1-8.176-7.952-8.414-8.5962-6.935-7.439-6.808-7.3893-7.735-7.456-7.625-6.863Delta1.2410.5131.6061.733Rank3421Table 7
Optimized input parameters: lower aspect ratio (AR-HF pulse).
S. no.FactorsLevelsValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak in %2504Pulse frequency in HZ3250Table 8
Optimized parameters for lower aspect ratio (AR) in LF pulsing.
S. no.FactorLevelValues1Peak current in amps22202Base current in amps2803Peak (%)2504Pulse frequency in Hz310


## 4.4. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)

ANOVA optimized results for HF pulsing and LF pulsing are shown in Figure4. The effectiveness and contribution percentage influence of each component on the effect of bead geometry (W/P) - AISI 409L were determined using ANOVA at a 5% level of significance. Frequency had 20.1% influences on aspect ratio, followed by percent peak with a 32.08 percent significance, then peak current percent (20.1 percent), and base current percent (20.1 percent) (7.7 percent). Table 9 shows the ANOVA results for aspect ratio of LF pulsing. Table 10 shows the ANOVA results for aspect ratio of HF pulsing.Figure 4
ANOVA optimized results for (a) HF pulsing and (b) LF pulsing.
(a)(b)Table 9
ANOVA results for aspect ratio of LF pulsing.
SourcesDOFAdj SSAdj MSF valueP valueA20.294160.14708∗∗B20.114020.05701∗∗C20.080690.04034∗∗D20.266420.13321∗∗Error0∗∗Total80.75529Table 10
ANOVA results for aspect ratio of HF pulsing.
SourcesDFAdj SSAdj MSF valueP valueA20.206020.10301∗∗B20.078690.03934∗∗C20.328090.16404∗∗D20.409620.20481∗∗Error0∗∗Total81.02242


## 4.5. Analysis of Variance

After the comparison of outcomes related to LF and HF current pulsing approaches, it is clear that in HF-PCGTAW, the arc is better focused when higher welding speeds and frequencies are used. Furthermore, compared to low-frequency pulsed GTA, the HF pulsed GTA technique is better to control over the optimum penetration rate with low input heat. With a heat input of 838 J/mm, they observed a higher depth of 4.5.2 mm [31]. The faster the pulse, the faster the travel speed, and hence, the higher the weld quality. The difference in welding speed between the two procedures is thought to be the reason for this. As a result of the greater frequency, less time is spent welding in a specific spot, lowering the heat input [32]. As a result, HF-PCGTAW saves a significant amount of energy, increasing productivity. The production of undesired phases is limited when the input heat on the fusion zone was reduced, which enhances the weld characteristics. When the comparison on the major effects plots of LF and HF on PCGTAW was discovered by IB plots for both approaches had nearly the same pattern [33]. This is because the effect of base current is limited to maintaining a steady arc. If the peak percent is higher, the present pulse will stay on for a longer time [34]. Because the heat required to melt the parent metal is supplied during the peak pulse, when the peak percent is higher, more heat is delivered. As a result, there is better penetration and a wider bead width. As a result, peak percent is the most influential metric that is also observed [35].


### 4.5.1. Microstructure of Weld Samples

The plate was sectioned in the transverse direction after welding, and samples were made and polished with different grades of abrasive emery sheet; additional polishing was done with diamond polishing using 1 m diamond paste. The samples are polished and etched by Vilella reagent (30%) (3 g picric acid +15 ml hydrochloric acid +200 ml ethanol and dual viewed under a Leica DM750 Microscope.


### 4.5.2. Microscopic Images for Different Regions

The following are the observations made for a sample for their regions termed parent metal region, heat impacted, and fusion zone. All of the images were taken at a magnification of 50x. As demonstrated in Figure5, delta-ferrite combined with needle-martensite forms in the pulsed TIG weld fusion zone (d). Because of the autogenous and single-pass heat cycle, a uniform phase distribution throughout the weld of fusion zone has expected in the pulsed TIG weld [36]. The presence of ferrite and martensite in the microstructure is confirmed by the pulsed TIGW fusion zone [37]. The presence of delta-ferrite combined with martensite can be seen in the HA zone of welds.Figure 5
Surface morphology: (a) collective view, (b) HAZ, and (c) pulsed TIG weld.


## 4.5.1. Microstructure of Weld Samples

The plate was sectioned in the transverse direction after welding, and samples were made and polished with different grades of abrasive emery sheet; additional polishing was done with diamond polishing using 1 m diamond paste. The samples are polished and etched by Vilella reagent (30%) (3 g picric acid +15 ml hydrochloric acid +200 ml ethanol and dual viewed under a Leica DM750 Microscope.


## 4.5.2. Microscopic Images for Different Regions

The following are the observations made for a sample for their regions termed parent metal region, heat impacted, and fusion zone. All of the images were taken at a magnification of 50x. As demonstrated in Figure5, delta-ferrite combined with needle-martensite forms in the pulsed TIG weld fusion zone (d). Because of the autogenous and single-pass heat cycle, a uniform phase distribution throughout the weld of fusion zone has expected in the pulsed TIG weld [36]. The presence of ferrite and martensite in the microstructure is confirmed by the pulsed TIGW fusion zone [37]. The presence of delta-ferrite combined with martensite can be seen in the HA zone of welds.Figure 5
Surface morphology: (a) collective view, (b) HAZ, and (c) pulsed TIG weld.


## 4.6. Mechanical Properties

### 4.6.1. Tensile Testing Results

Mico-Vickers hardness and transverse tensile testing has been obtained to compare the characteristics of mechanical parameters of the pulsed TIGW samples. The tensile samples were made as per the standard of ASTM E8 M-04 (gauge length and width of 25 and 6 mm), as illustrated in Figure6. The tensile test was carried out by a Tinius Olsen universal testing machine with a capacity of 50 KN eletromechanical controlled crosshead speed (strain rate) of 1 mm/min [38]. The tensile strength values of optimized samples, such as ultimate tensile strength and elongation rate, are shown in Table 11.Figure 6
ASTM E8 standard specimen dimensions for tensile testing.Table 11
Tensile test specimen UTS and % elongation.
Specimen noUltimate strength (MPa)% total elongation144526.2421.426.5338524.2Average41525.56Pulsed TIG discovered a maximum UTS of 445 MPa and a minimum of 385 MPa. 415 MPa is the average of three samples. The welded metal in all joints had a higher UTS compared to parent metal, according to the findings. Despite the fact that all of the samples failed by the parent metal, the samples’ strength varies. The percentage strain obtained for both welds, however, was smaller than that of the base metal. The martensitic development was blamed for the higher UTS and decreased ductility of the pulsed TIG welds. Furthermore, the hardness results are consistent with the tensile experiments, as the fusion zone has a higher hardness than the parent metal. AISI 409L by GTAW samples were exhibited more brittle in nature due to the formation of lathe martensite phases which is responsible in increasing material strength [39].


### 4.6.2. Vickers Microhardness Test

The test conditions are as follows: diamond indenter with a 500-gram load and a 10-second dwell duration. The Vickers microhardness test was conducted in accordance with ASTM E92 standard.The Vickers hardness of the pulsed TIG weld samples is measured using the Matsuzawa MMTX-7 at KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India, as mentioned in Figure7. The micro-Vickers hardness number for the welded place ranged from 220 to 270 HV, while the base metal’s average hardness was 160 HV. The transformation of microstructure phase from ferritic structure to martensitic structure was attributed to the increased hardness of the pulsed TIG weld zone [40]. The pulsed TIG weld fusion zone had a consistent hardness distribution, with slightly reduced hardness towards the start to the center. In the pulsed TIG weldment, low solidification rate was found on the center of the weld; it results in more grain growth and less martensitic transformation. The transformation to martensitic structure with fine grain refinement was placed via HAZs the weld, which has response for the increased hardness in HA Zone as compared to parent metal. The martensitic transition and grain refinement occurred in the HAZs weld, resulting in improved hardness in HA zone compared to parent metal.Figure 7
Hardness variation of BM, HAZ, and FZ.


## 4.6.1. Tensile Testing Results

Mico-Vickers hardness and transverse tensile testing has been obtained to compare the characteristics of mechanical parameters of the pulsed TIGW samples. The tensile samples were made as per the standard of ASTM E8 M-04 (gauge length and width of 25 and 6 mm), as illustrated in Figure6. The tensile test was carried out by a Tinius Olsen universal testing machine with a capacity of 50 KN eletromechanical controlled crosshead speed (strain rate) of 1 mm/min [38]. The tensile strength values of optimized samples, such as ultimate tensile strength and elongation rate, are shown in Table 11.Figure 6
ASTM E8 standard specimen dimensions for tensile testing.Table 11
Tensile test specimen UTS and % elongation.
Specimen noUltimate strength (MPa)% total elongation144526.2421.426.5338524.2Average41525.56Pulsed TIG discovered a maximum UTS of 445 MPa and a minimum of 385 MPa. 415 MPa is the average of three samples. The welded metal in all joints had a higher UTS compared to parent metal, according to the findings. Despite the fact that all of the samples failed by the parent metal, the samples’ strength varies. The percentage strain obtained for both welds, however, was smaller than that of the base metal. The martensitic development was blamed for the higher UTS and decreased ductility of the pulsed TIG welds. Furthermore, the hardness results are consistent with the tensile experiments, as the fusion zone has a higher hardness than the parent metal. AISI 409L by GTAW samples were exhibited more brittle in nature due to the formation of lathe martensite phases which is responsible in increasing material strength [39].


## 4.6.2. Vickers Microhardness Test

The test conditions are as follows: diamond indenter with a 500-gram load and a 10-second dwell duration. The Vickers microhardness test was conducted in accordance with ASTM E92 standard.The Vickers hardness of the pulsed TIG weld samples is measured using the Matsuzawa MMTX-7 at KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India, as mentioned in Figure7. The micro-Vickers hardness number for the welded place ranged from 220 to 270 HV, while the base metal’s average hardness was 160 HV. The transformation of microstructure phase from ferritic structure to martensitic structure was attributed to the increased hardness of the pulsed TIG weld zone [40]. The pulsed TIG weld fusion zone had a consistent hardness distribution, with slightly reduced hardness towards the start to the center. In the pulsed TIG weldment, low solidification rate was found on the center of the weld; it results in more grain growth and less martensitic transformation. The transformation to martensitic structure with fine grain refinement was placed via HAZs the weld, which has response for the increased hardness in HA Zone as compared to parent metal. The martensitic transition and grain refinement occurred in the HAZs weld, resulting in improved hardness in HA zone compared to parent metal.Figure 7
Hardness variation of BM, HAZ, and FZ.


## 4.7. Corrosion Studies

### 4.7.1. Potentio-dynamic Polarization Test

The corrosion rate is calculated using a potentio-dynamic polarization test for the parent metal and weld region, as seen in Figure8. The electrochemical corrosion studies were conducted in accordance with ASTM G199–09 standard.Figure 8
Polarization curve for (a) weld metal and (b) base metal.Corrosion tests on the welded samples were carried out using a VersaSTAT 4, (AMETEK, KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India) electrochemical workstation. A three-electrode electrochemical cell system was used in this study. The reference electrode (SSE) was a Ag/AgCl saturated in KCl, and the auxiliary electrode has a platinum electrode. Working electrode was the sample under test. PDP (potentio-dynamic polarization) was used to investigate corrosion and its pace. The 3.5 percent NaCl solution was exposed to a surface area of 0.07065cm2 of base materials and weld nuggets. The rate of corrosion of the base material is lower than the rate of corrosion of the weld metal. As a result, the corrosion resistance of the base material is larger than the resistance to corrosion of the weld metal. The presence of martensite reduces the resistance to general corrosion, but it also reduces the pitting potential as the martensite content rises. That could be the reason for the decrease in weld metal corrosion resistance.


## 4.7.1. Potentio-dynamic Polarization Test

The corrosion rate is calculated using a potentio-dynamic polarization test for the parent metal and weld region, as seen in Figure8. The electrochemical corrosion studies were conducted in accordance with ASTM G199–09 standard.Figure 8
Polarization curve for (a) weld metal and (b) base metal.Corrosion tests on the welded samples were carried out using a VersaSTAT 4, (AMETEK, KAHE, Tamil Nadu, India) electrochemical workstation. A three-electrode electrochemical cell system was used in this study. The reference electrode (SSE) was a Ag/AgCl saturated in KCl, and the auxiliary electrode has a platinum electrode. Working electrode was the sample under test. PDP (potentio-dynamic polarization) was used to investigate corrosion and its pace. The 3.5 percent NaCl solution was exposed to a surface area of 0.07065cm2 of base materials and weld nuggets. The rate of corrosion of the base material is lower than the rate of corrosion of the weld metal. As a result, the corrosion resistance of the base material is larger than the resistance to corrosion of the weld metal. The presence of martensite reduces the resistance to general corrosion, but it also reduces the pitting potential as the martensite content rises. That could be the reason for the decrease in weld metal corrosion resistance.


## 5. Conclusion

Based on combination of input process parametersIP=220amps, Ib=80amps, peakpercent=50%, and frequency=250Hz, complete penetration of 4.5 mm was accomplished in the pulsed TIG. High-pulsed frequency has a 40.06 percent influence on aspect ratio, followed by percent peak with a relevance of 32.08 percent, peak current percent (20.1 percent), and base current percent (20.1 percent) (7.7 percent). In high-frequency pulsing, frequency has the greatest impact on bead shape, whereas in low-frequency pulsing, peak current (Ip) has the most impact. The pulsed TIG weld fusion zone is where delta ferrite with needle-like martensite forms. It was due to the autogenous with single-pass heat cycle that uniform phase distribution along entire weld fusion zone was imposed in the rate of pulsed TIG weld. The presence of ferrite and martensite in the microstructure is confirmed by the pulsed TIG weld fusion zones. The presence of delta-ferrite combined with martensite structure is seen from the HA zone of welds. Pulsed TIG found a maximum UTS of 440 MPa and a minimum of 392 MPa. 417 MPa is the average of three samples. The weld metal in all of the joints had a greater UTS than the base metal, according to the findings. The basic metal failed all of the samples. The rate of resistance to corrosion of the parent material is lower than the rate of corrosion of the weld metal. As a result, the resistant to corrosion of the parent material is larger than the resistant to corrosion of the welded metal. The presence of martensite reduces the resistance to general corrosion, but it also reduces the pitting potential as the martensite content rises. That could be the reason for the decline in weld metal corrosion resistance.



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*Source: 9530499-2022-06-17.xml*