Modeling and optimization of bead geometry and hardness of bead on plate TIG welds of Stainless Steel SS202

The quality and load-carrying capacity of weldments mainly depends on selecting suitable levels of input welding parameters. Current research intends to optimize input parameters, viz. current and welding speed, for various weld characteristics like penetration depth, weld width, weld bead hardness, and HAZ hardness for tungsten inert gas welded SS202. Experiments were organized using the response surface methodology’s central composite face-centered design approach. The experimental findings were analyzed using ANOVA, and regression equations were developed for all output parameters. Higher current and slower welding speeds increase penetration depth and weld width, and vice versa. The greatest penetration depth (1.764 mm), minimum weld width (4.097 mm), maximum weld bead hardness (347 Hv), and heat-affected zone hardness (302 Hv) were achieved with the optimized input values of welding current and speed, which were 103 A and 5 mm/sec, respectively. A confirmation test revealed that the predicted values aligned well with experimental results.