Welding of titanium alloys with activating flux

Abstract

In the present paper, the effects of an activating flux on Ti–6Al–4V alloy welding were investigated. Tungsten inert gas welding was used to weld 8.0 mm thickness Ti–6Al–4V alloy plates. Results show that applying the activating flux on the Ti–6Al–4V alloy surface leads to an increase in weld penetration depth, whereas the corresponding weld bead width is reduced. It was also found that various welding conditions, particularly flux thickness, influence the effectiveness of the activating flux. Furthermore, a data acquisition system was used to monitor the current and voltage signals during welding. Results from monitoring of the welding current and voltage signals reveal that there is a clear correlation between the signals and the weld penetration when the welding arc is steady. Analysis of the acquired signals can be used to identify inconsistencies in weld penetration. In summary, to take advantage of the use of activating flux in Ti alloy welding, it is important that a uniform flux layer is present at the alloy plate surface and suitable welding parameters are selected.