Characteristics of electrospark deposition of a nickel-based alloy on 410 stainless steel for purpose of facilitating dissimilar metal welding by laser

In this research, a new method is developed using the electrospark deposition (ESD) process for making an interlayer, which could be useful in welding dissimilar metals. Alloy 82 nickel-based alloy was deposited on the edge of a 410-stainless-steel plate and used as an interlayer for subsequent welding to a nickel Alloy 82 plate forming a dissimilar metal weld. Metallographic analysis showed that the ESD layer consisted of a γ phase, columnar grains oriented in {100} direction and cellular solidification morphology with 250–350 nm cell diameter. Neither Lave phase nor large carbide crystals were observed in the microstructure of ESD layer due to the high-cooling rate and the low tendency for segregation. Tensile test exhibited an ultimate strength in excess of 420 MPa, and failure of the joint occurred in the 410 stainless steel base metal indicating good weldability of the ESD interlayer to the base metal.