A study on mechanical and microstructure characteristics of the STS304L butt joints using hybrid CO2 laser-gas metal arc welding

► 2D simulation model for hybrid welding (CO2 laser + MIG) of STS304L butt joint. ► Combination of ellipsoid and line heat distribution exhibits in hybrid weld. ► Faster rate of heating and cooling in hybrid welding than SAW. ► Residual stress in the welding direction in hybrid welding is (13-15%) less than SAW. ► HAZ size of SAW weld is twice that of hybrid weld.