Influence of Welding Speed on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser-Welded Joints in 316L Stainless Steel Sheets

This study investigates the effect of welding speed on the microstructure and mechanical properties of pulsed laser lap-welded 0.2 mm 316L stainless steel sheets, commonly used in fuel cell bipolar plates. Welding speeds ranging from 6 to 26 mm/s were tested while other laser parameters remained constant. Results show that increasing welding speed reduces heat input, overlap factor, and weld dimensions. A transition from full to partial penetration occurs beyond 6 mm/s, with no visible heat-affected zone. The weld microstructure features columnar ferrite near fusion boundaries and globular ferrite in the center. Tensile–shear tests reveal that welds maintain higher strength than the base metal up to 22 mm/s, with all fractures occurring in the base material. An optimal speed range of 10–14 mm/s ensures defect-free joints with improved mechanical performance. These findings provide practical guidance for thin-gauge stainless steel welding in fuel cell applications.