The Role of Welding Parameters in Hydrogen Embrittlement Mitigation: A Case Study in Steel

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2024.v09.n03.021

Keywords:

welding defects, metallurgical hydrogen, metallurgical process technology, hydrogen fragility

Abstract

This research investigates the mitigation of hydrogen embrittlement in steel, focusing on the effects of metallurgical hydrogen and the efficacy of various reduction techniques. Key findings demonstrate that vacuum treatment during steel casting combined with thermal treatment significantly lowers hydrogen content, enhancing steel's resistance to embrittlement. Welding processes differ in susceptibility to hydrogen-induced cracking, with submerged arc welding (SAW) showing the least and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) the most susceptibility. Employing multipass welding, along with preheating and post-weld heat treatments, effectively minimizes hydrogen-related cracking by promoting even hydrogen distribution and desorption. The study highlights the successful application of fluoride-ion-containing welding fluxes, such as CaF2 and KF, to reduce weld hydrogen levels through chemical reactions. Furthermore, the choice of welding parameters, particularly the arc voltage, substantially impacts the hydrogen concentration in the welds. Additionally, the incorporation of hydrogen-binding elements such as yttrium significantly reduces the level of free hydrogen, thereby enhancing resistance to hydrogen corrosion. The research underlines the need for selecting appropriate welding methods and parameters to effectively reduce the adverse effects on welded joints. In conclusion, optimizing vacuum and thermal treatments, along with developing innovative welding materials, is imperative to control hydrogen content, crucial to the longevity and reliability of steel products in hydrogen-sensitive applications such as the oil and gas sector.

Author Biographies

Vitalijus Rudzinskas, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Plytines g. 25, LT-10105 Vilnius, Lithuania

Vitalijus Rudzinskas is an Associate Professor at the Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Faculty of Mechanics (Lithuania). His research focuses on the material engineering, and welding’s.

Oleksandr Kapustynskyi, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Plytines g. 25, LT-10105 Vilnius, Lithuania

Oleksandr Kapustynskyi, is an accomplished mechanical engineer and researcher with a diverse educational background. Currently is Research Fellow and Lecturer at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Faculty of Mechanics (Lithuania). In 2011 he obtained a Junior Specialists degree in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering from Berdychiv College of Industrial, Economics and Law, Ukraine. After continued his studies at the National Technical University of Ukraine “Kyiv Polytechnic Institute,” where earned his Bachelor’s degree (2014) and his Master’s degree (2016) in Mechanical. In 2023 he obtained a Doctoral degree at the VilniusTECH Faculty of Mechanics (Lithuania). His research focuses on the mechanical and material engineering, laser technologies, and welding’s.

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Published

15-03-2024

How to Cite

Rudzinskas, V., & Kapustynskyi, O. (2024). The Role of Welding Parameters in Hydrogen Embrittlement Mitigation: A Case Study in Steel. RESEARCH REVIEW International Journal of Multidisciplinary, 9(3), 203–212. https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2024.v09.n03.021