Effect of Thermal Cycle on the Formation of Intermetallic Compounds in Laser Welding of Aluminum-Steel Overlap Joints

The intermetallic compound (IMC) (or intermetallic phase layer) has a significant influence on the mechanical properties ofjoints between dissimilar metals obtained by thermal processes such as laser welding. Its formation is basically affected by thermal cycles in the joining or contact zone, where the IMC is formed. Within this study, the influence of the thermal cycle on the formation of the IMC during laser welding of an aluminum-steel (Al99.5-DC01) overlap joint was investigated. The temperature was measured directly by a thermocouple, and the weld seam was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The influence of peak temperature, cooling time and the integral of the thermal cycle on the thickness of the IMC was identified and discussed. It was identified that cooling time has the biggest influence on the thickness of the IMC.