Composite structures consisting of steel and nodular-graphite cast iron manufactured by means of magnetically impelled arc butt welding

Abstract

When conventional fusion-welding processes (TIG, GMA or E) are used, welded joints on components made of nodular-graphite cast iron mostly lead to unfavourable joint properties. Good joints, which can also be subjected to dynamic loads, are achieved using a mechanised special welding process (magnetically impelled arc butt welding - MIAB welding). Industry's great interest in this process is also related to composite structures consisting of steel with components made of nodular-graphite cast iron, e.g. in vehicle construction or in the fittings industry. The application of MIAB welding gives rise to joints with high dimensional accuracy and good repeatability. Results of investigations on the MIAB-welded steel/nodular-graphite cast iron combinations consisting of S235/EN-GJS-400-15 and S355/EN-GJS-600-3 (cast-iron designations according to DIN EN 1563) are described taking account of material-specific problems.