Cracking of High-Strength Steel Welded Joints

Fracture evaluation of welded joints in high-strength steels, with bainitic and martensitic structures, is presented and cracking mechanisms discussed. Hot cracks or microcracks formed during welding are further expanded as cold cracks on cooling. The cause of cracking is shown to be low temperature of weld solidification and deformation-induced contraction. Hydrogen can also be an important factor in this cracking.