Study of the Simulated Heat Affected Zone of Creep Resistant 9–12% Advanced Chromium Steel

Abstract

Global warming leads to research-development attempts worldwide with a view to reduce CO₂ emission. Therefore, in the energy supply sector, a special focus has been directed to further development of steels that can endure the ultra-supercritical steam conditions. Our article presents the basic study on weldability of the advanced 9–12% chromium steel applying the thermomechanical simulation of the heat affected zone (HAZ). The changes of microstructures and material properties of HAZ before and after postweld heat treatment (PWHT) have been analyzed and compared by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hardness measurements, and impact toughness testing. Microstructures at representative points during typical welding cycle and PWHT were studied in details.

Keywords:

• Austenitization
• Heat affected zone toughness
• Microstructure
• P91
• Simulation of the heat-affected zone