Investigation of the weldability of copper to steel tubes using the electromagnetic welding process

Abstract

Magnetic pulse welding is an innovative joining method which allows joining of dissimilar metal combinations. However, much remains unknown about the process and its parameters. In this paper, the weldability of copper tubes to steel rods and tubes is discussed, with the goal of examining the influence of the wall thickness of the supporting steel tube on the weld and the deformation of the components. Large deformations were observed, causing an undesirable decrease in diameter of the tubes. The quality of the obtained welds was shown to decrease with decreasing inner tube thickness as well, most likely due to the deformation of the workpieces in radial direction. Because of this, it is advisable to use an internal support to prevent deformation of the support tubes. To gain more insight in the precise mechanisms of weld formation and failure, numerical simulations are advised.

The Effect of Channel Depth on Joint Quality in Cu/AISI 1040 Materials Joined by Mechanical Locking Method

“…The analysis of the welded joint in these materials joined by the diffusion welding method confirmed the theoretical fracture conditions [12]. Previous studies have reported that it is difficult to join copper-steel by laser welding [13]; cracks occur in the intermetallic layers of copper-steel tubes joined by electromagnetic welding [14], strength incompatibility is seen in copper-steel joined by hot isostatic pressing [15], the coarse grain region forms the weak point in the joining of Cu and AISI 304 through electron beam welding [16], and differences in the physical and chemical properties of the materials make welding processes difficult [17]. Since the joint is not atomic in MLM, these problems are eliminated.…”

Electromagnetic Pulse Welding of Tubular Products: Influence of Process Parameters and Workpiece Geometry on the Joint Characteristics and Investigation of Suitable Support Systems for the Target Tube

“…For welded tubular specimens, the weld length measured at the field shaper cut and 180° relative to the field shaper cut can be summarized into an arbitrarily defined parameter, called the Weld Quality Indicator (WQI). This parameter was developed by the authors and takes into account both weld lengths and the presence of a non-welded interface, observed during the metallographic examination [22]. The WQI is defined as The WQI is a measure for the weld length and the continuity of the welded interface along the circumference of the welded tubes.…”