Joining of Inconel-625 alloy through microwave hybrid heating and its characterization

Joining of bulk metals using microwave energy is being explored as a new processing method in the era of high technology applications. The present work investigates the results of on-going project in which joining of Inconel-625 alloy has been effectively carried out through microwave hybrid heating. Characterization of the microwave developed joints is done through SEM, XRD, UTM and Vicker's microhardness tester. The microstructural analysis through scanning electron microscope exhibits a fully fused weld interface free from interfacial cracks. XRD study reveals the formation of carbides of Ni, Cr and Mo in the joint interface. The average Vicker's microhardness in the joint region observed was 360 ± 20 Hv. Assessment of tensile strength shows an ultimate tensile strength of 328 MPa with 9.04% elongation. Further the fractured joints are subjected to fractography study which possibly reveals a mixed mode fracture.