Shear deformation and failure of explosive welded Inconel-microalloyed steels bimetals

In the following study, the forced shear specimens were investigated to obtain mechanical characterization of Inconel-microalloyed steels bimetals achieved through explosive bonding process. The chrome–molybdenum steel (16Mo3) and high strength microalloyed steel (X70) plates were joined and compared as base materials in the bimetals. Tests were performed quasi-statically and dynamically to examine the influence of strain rate on the shear strength of the metallurgical bond between two steel components. The joined area was also analyzed using microhardness measurements and by light microscopy. (Wave bonding interface and plastic deformation was present in both bimetals). Melted zones, especially In the case of 16Mo3 steel, were observed. The qualitative and quantitative assessments of the mechanical state—using computer simulations as well as microhardness distributions and microstructure development in the forced shear specimens showed that bimetal Inconel 601/X70 was superior to Inconel 601/16Mo3.