Microstructure and mechanical properties of electron beam-welded AISI 409M-grade ferritic stainless steel

This paper deals with the microstructure and mechanical characterization of electron beam-welded AISI 409M-grade ferritic stainless steel joints. Single-pass autogenous welds free of volumetric defects were produced at a welding speed of 1,000 mm/min. The joints were subjected to optical microscopy, scanning electron fractography, microhardness, transverse and longitudinal tensile, bend and charpy impact toughness testing. The coarse ferrite grains in the base metal were changed into fine equiaxed axial grains and columnar grains as a result of characteristic rapid solidification of electron beam welds. Tensile testing indicates overmatching of the weld metal relative to the base metal. The joints exhibited acceptable impact toughness and bend strength properties.