Effect of laser welding parameters on the microstructure and tensile properties of low-alloy high-strength steel

Abstract The studying employed orthogonal experimental approach to optimize the laser welding process parameters for HC420LA low-alloy high-strength steel. Through metallographic analysis, microhardness testing, and tensile testing, the study assessed and contrasted the properties of laser-welded and arc-welded joints. The findings revealed that the most optimal laser welding conditions were 1.8 kW laser power, 2.5 m min −1 welding speed, and a focus distance of 1.5 mm, resulting in a well-formed ‘X’ shaped weld bead. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the laser-welded joint exhibited a finer microstructure, primarily composed of bainite and ferrite, whereas the arc-welded joint consisted of ferrite and martensite. Notably, the laser-welded joint exhibited superior mechanical properties, including increased microhardness and tensile strength, underscoring the distinct advantage of laser welding technology in high-strength steel welding, particularly in enhancing the weld joint’s quality and performance.