Authors : Araque de los Rios Oscar and Arzola de la Pena Nelson
Abstract: This research presents a theoretical-experimental study about the structural integrity of welded joints under cyclic loads taking into account the influence of initial crack flaws and the cooling rate by the thermal cycle as it relates to this research, steel ASTM A36 HR was the base material and as filler material the electrode E6013 using Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) as welding procedure. The research topic was approached from an integral perspective, analyzing the behavior of the welded joint from its elaboration phase until its final crack by fatigue with the aim to relate its fatigue life with the experimental factors: load relationship, leg of fillet weld and cooling environment. The welded casting was subjected to an analysis that included the micro-structural and ultrasonic analysis. Also, useful information about the mechanic and fracture-mechanic behavior of the welded joint was gathered throughout tests of axial fatigue and its later monitoring by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) in the crack tip and was related with the presence of discontinuities in the welded joint. A high degree of correspondence was reached between the ultrasonic testing and the experimental results.
Araque de los Rios Oscar and Arzola de la Pena Nelson, 2018. Structural Integrity of Welded Joints Subject to Fatigue Loads. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 13: 3444-3449.