MICROSTRUCTURAL EVOLUTION IN FRICTION STIR WELDED API 5L-X52 STEEL

Abstract: Welded API-5L steel pipes have been extensively used in the oil industry. One of the major parameters affecting the mechanical properties is the grain size, which is altered with the joining method. In this paper microstructural evolution in the friction stir welded API 5L-X52 steel pipes has been investigated.Specimens were cut from a 2mm thick API 5L-X52 steel pipe. The steel sheets were then joined by friction stir welding process; at a linear speed of 100 mm/min. The tool rotational speed was varied from 400 to 800 rpm. Samples were then evaluated using tensile test, metallographic and hardness measurements. Microstructural investigations revealed the stir zone, heat affected zone and thermo mechanically affected zones. Heat input in the stir zone led to the formation of elongated austenite grains which were transformed to fine ferrite and pearlite grains and widmanstatten ferrite in certain regions. Plastic deformation and recrystallization enhanced the hardness and tensile strength as well as toughness of the welded joint in the API 5L-X52 steel.

Keywords: Friction stir welding, API 5L-X52 steel, microstructure, ferrite and pearlite grains.