Influence of activated flux on micro-structural and mechanical properties of AISI 1018 during MIG welding

Abstract The strength of weld joint largely depends on depth of penetration of metal at fusion zone. The present study aims to investigate effect of five activated fluxes, viz. Al2 (SO4)3, NaOH, Na2CO3, NaHCO3, and borax in MIG welding on depth of penetration and mechanical properties of AISI 1018. Results reflected that use of flux had paramount influence on the microstructure and hardness of the bead on plate welds. It helps in increasing depth of penetration via reverse Marangoni effect. Out of all five fluxes, Borax flux had provided higher depth of penetration, external and internal aspect ratio and hardness than other fluxes used as well as than without flux.