Randomized trial investigates mechanical properties in underwater laser welding, indicating enhanced performance in nuclear repair applications.
Key Points
This work aims to assess the microstructure and mechanical properties of 304L stainless steel joints repaired using underwater local dry laser welding.
Comparative analysis between ULDLW and conventional in-air laser welding.
Utilized ER308L filler metal for the welding process.
Conducted electron backscatter diffraction analysis for microstructural evaluation.
Underwater welds exhibit UTS of 685.6 MPa, elongation of 57.5%, and impact toughness of 22.6 J.
In-air welds show UTS of 663.9 MPa, elongation of 51.8%, and impact toughness of 18.6 J.
Substantial grain refinement observed, with average grain sizes of 39.4 μm underwater compared to 47.3 μm in-air.