Abstract
This study has evaluated the weld metal solidification cracking behavior of several Ni base superalloys (Incoloy 825, Inconel 718 and Inconel 600). Austenitic stainless steels(304, 310S) were also included for comparison. In addition, a possible mechanism of solidification cracking in the fusion zone was suggested based on the extensive microstructural examinations with SEM, EDAX, TEM, SADP and AEM. The solidification cracking resistance of Ni base superalloys was found to be far inferior to that of austenitic stainless steels. The solidification cracking of Incoloy 825 and Inconel 718 was believel to be closely related with the Laves-austenite (Ti rich in 825 and Nb rich in 718) and MC-austenite eutectic phases formed along the grain boundaries during solidification. Cracking in Inconel 600 was always found along the grain boundaries which were enriched with Ti and P. Further, solidifidcation cracking resistance was dependent not only upon the type of love melting phases but also on the amount of the phases along the solidification grain boundaries.