Dependence of strength and fracture behaviour on chemical compositions in spot-welded L-type joints

AbstractIn order to achieve lighter and stronger car bodies by applying high strength steel sheets, one of the key technologies is enhancement of joint strength. In this study, we investigated dependence of strength and fracture behaviour on chemical compositions of steels in spot-welded L-type joints in detail. Consequently, the following experimental results were obtained. (1) Maximum load of the joint decreased with increase of carbon (C) and phosphorous (P). The maximum load was decreased by 0.4–0.7 kN with increase of 0.1% in C, with C content ranging from 0.03 to 0.5%, and 0.5 kN with increase of 0.01% in P, with P content ranging from 0 to 0.03%. (2) Fracture portion changed from the outside to the inside of weld metal with increase of C and P. (3) The fracture path was estimated to accord with the solidification segregation site in the weld metal in the case of a steel of 0.2% C, 0.03% P. (4) By implementation of an appropriate post heat during spot welding process for the steel of 0.2% C, 0.03% P...