Keywords
coefficient of linear expansion
constructional steel
thermo-mechanical analysis
welding
How to Cite
Abstract
Knowledge of the linear expansion coefficient of steel is crucial for ensuring the safety, durability, and proper functioning of welded structures. The aim of this study is to investigate the coefficient of linear expansion of S355J2 structural steel and C45 carbon steel, welded using various techniques: metal inert gas welding, tungsten inert gas welding and manual metal arc welding. Linear expansion tests of steel samples were conducted using a dilatometer. The results allowed for an assessment of the effect of the welding technique and the chemical composition (carbon content) of the steel on the thermal properties of the test materials. The reference samples (materials in as-received state) achieved the highest level of thermal expansion. All welding techniques reduced the temperature-induced elongation, with the magnitude of this effect dependent on the welding technique used. The results have practical implications for the design of structural components exposed to variable temperature conditions. Understanding the effect of individual welding techniques on the properties of S355J2 and C45 steels can support the selection of material welding technologies where dimensional stability is an important quality parameter.
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