Electroslag welding is an automotable process having several advantages: high rates of weld metal deposition, applicability to thick sections (up to one foot or even more), low distortions due to residual stresses, and cost-effectiveness if no post-weld heat treatment is required. However, the process also has disadvantages: wide heat-affected zone, large grains, and possible embrittlement due to segregation of impurities in grain boundaries. The disadvantages are attributed to the high rates of heat input and the slow cooling. The disadvantages are reduced by reducing the rates of heat input and by stirring the weld puddle. The materials used will be 2 1/4% Cr - 1% Mo steel and HY 80 structural steel. The speed of deposition will be increased above normal rates, thus distributing the heat over a longer weld distance. Hollow strip electrodes filled with iron and manganese powders will be used. The weld pool will be stirred magnetically. The voltage-current diagram will be explored systematically. Weldments will be evaluated by x-ray and ultrasonic inspection methods, metallography, hardness traverses, and charpy V-notch tests (for toughness).
