Time-resolved X-ray diffraction investigation of primary weld solidification in Fe-C-Al-Mn steel welds

In situ time-resolved X-ray diffraction (TRXRD) using synchrotron radiation was used to monitor the phase evolution during welding of Fe-C-Al-Mn steel with 0.05 s resolutions. The primary solidification phase under rapid- and slow-cooling rate conditions was examined. The results showed nonequilibrium austenite solidification during rapid cooling; in contrast to the equilibrium δ-ferrite solidification that occurs under slow cooling conditions. These experimental results were analyzed using computational thermodynamics and interface-response function models. Results of the interface response function calculations considering the effect of carbon alone, predicted a change from primary δ-ferrite to primary austenite solidification with an increase in solid-liquid interface velocity.