International Journal of Iron & Steel Society of Iran

International Journal of Iron & Steel Society of Iran

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance in Welded Stainless Steel 321H: Influence of Buttering Techniques

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
M. Beigi
A. Khosravifard
A. Rabiezadeh
R. Sani
Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Engineering School, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
10.22034/ijissi.2025.2045999.1309
Abstract
 This study examines the mechanical properties and corrosion susceptibility of welded Stainless Steel 321H, focusing on the effects of buttering layers applied with NiCiMo filler metal compared to conventional welding without buttering. Tensile, bending, impact, hardness, and intergranular corrosion tests were conducted on both buttered and non-buttered samples. The results showed that non-buttered welds consistently exhibited superior strength and toughness, with ultimate tensile strengths ranging from 578 to 588 MPa and impact energy absorption values of 57.3 J to 67 J. In contrast, buttered samples demonstrated lower tensile strengths (560 to 578 MPa) and impact energy values (43 J to 51 J), underscoring the vulnerabilities introduced by the buttering process. Both sample types failed the intergranular corrosion tests, indicating that high heat input during welding contributes to sensitization. These findings highlight the need to optimize welding parameters to reduce sensitization and improve the mechanical and corrosion resistance of welded Stainless Steel 321H for demanding applications. While the buttering process facilitates the welding of dissimilar materials, its associated risks and limitations must be carefully considered. 
Keywords
Stainless Steel
Buttering
Mechanical Properties
Intergranular Corrosion

Subjects

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