A Comparative Study of Microstructural Alterations and Mechanical Performance of IN718 Welds : Insights from Diverse Welding Processes

Inconel 718 (IN718) is a widely used nickel-based superalloy known for its excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures, making it ideal for aerospace and industrial applications.The microstructure of Inconel 718 is crucially influenced by its chemical composition and heat treatments, impacting its weldability and mechanical properties.Precipitation of phases like ' and '' enhances strength, while variations in grain size affect the laser welding response.Challenges in weldability stem from susceptibility to hot cracking in the heat-affected zone due to grain boundary liquation and the segregation of elements.Effective management of pre-and post-weld heat treatments, along with appropriate filler materials, are essential to mitigate these issues.This review provides a comprehensive comparative study of the microstructural alterations and mechanical performance of IN718 welds produced by various welding processes.The study synthesizes findings from multiple research articles, elucidating how each welding technique influences the weld microstructure, particularly in terms of grain size refinement, phase transformations, and formation of detrimental microstructural features such as Laves phase and heat-affected zone (HAZ) characteristics.The insights gained from this comparative analysis aim to guide the selection of appropriate welding processes for IN718 applications, ultimately enhancing the performance and reliability of welded components in critical environments.This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and engineers seeking to optimize welding parameters and improve the quality of IN718 welds.