INFLUENCE OF EXCESSIVE BAKING OF BASIC COATED ELECTRODE ON WELDMETAL CHARACTERISTICS AND DIFFUSIBLE HYDROGEN CONTENTS

Abstract

Studies have been carried out to evaluate the influence of higher baking temperatures on the mechanical properties of weldments. It has been observed that similar type of electrodes only from few manufacturers could sustain higher baking temperatures. The investigation revealed that higher baking temperatures in the range of 550°C and above lead to deterioration in the tensile properties . If the baking durations are increased from one hour to two hours then tensile properties further deteriorates . Although the impact strength generally increases when the electrodes are baked at 550°C as compared to the . recommended temperature by the manufacturer , but this is not reflected in the tensile properties of weldments. The diffusible hydrogen contents are very low for electrode. baking temperatures 650° C , even then the mechanical properties of weldments are very poo