Submerged Arc Welding Of Aluminium Bronze

TWI Industrial Member Report Summary 120/1980

By T G Gooch, M L E Davis and J A Barlow

Background

An investigation has been carried out to examine the viability of applying the submerged-arc process to aluminium bronze. Work was based on a copper/aluminium/nickel/iron alloy and, following studies of different flux formulations, butt welds were prepared for evaluation of joint soundness, chemical analysis and mechanical properties.

It was concluded that the submerged-arc process could be employed successfully to give welds of composition, microstructure and properties comparable to those obtained using other arc processes. Most satisfactory results were obtained using a cryolite/calcium fluoride/alumina based flux. Weld penetration and slag detachability were good, with freedom from lack of fusion, slag entrapment or cracking defects, although minor porosity was observed.

Recommendations were made for further work in view of the high deposition rates obtainable using the submerged-arc process.