Problems related to the welding of austenitic steel in the construction of atomic reactors

Austenitic steels have become increasingly important in the last few years in the construction of power stations, particularly atomic power stations. The suitability of these materials for use under conditions of extreme stress is due above all to their high resistance to corrosion and creep. The welding of thick austenitic construction parts has involved considerable difficulties in previous years due to the formation of microcracks in the welded joints. With the help of systematic development work this problem has been solved so that today austenitic steels up to 250 mm (10 inches) thick can be welded without any complication. Also automatic techniques (inert gas and submerged arc welding) can be successfully applied. (author)