Effect of Electroslag Welding on the Mechanical Properties of Beam-column Connection of St52 Steel Structures

Mohammadi Soleymani, Moslem; Majidi Jirandehi, ALIakbar

doi:10.48301/jear.2025.498324.1064

Effect of Electroslag Welding on the Mechanical Properties of Beam-column Connection of St52 Steel Structures

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Moslem Mohammadi Soleymani

ALIakbar Majidi Jirandehi

Mechanical Engineering Department, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

10.48301/jear.2025.498324.1064

Abstract

In the metal structure industry, electroslag welding (ESW) is widely recognized as an effective method for joining thick sections, particularly in building box constructions and column stiffener assemblies. This study examines ST52 steel due to its widespread industrial applications and the lack of prior research investigating its mechanical properties when welded using the electroslag welding (ESW) technique. Two 20 mm thick St52 steel plates were joined via ESW at welding currents of 200 A and 250 A to simulate a beam-to-column connection. The welded joints were evaluated for hardness, impact resistance, tensile strength, and bending properties. Hardness testing revealed an inverse relationship between heat input and weld metal hardness, while the heat-affected zone (HAZ) exhibited increased hardness relative to the base St52 steel. The average impact energy of the St52 steel (81J) was found to be lower than the average impact energy of the weld metal. As the heat input increases, the grains get coarser, causing cavities to develop on the fracture surfaces and a reduction in fracture energy.The tensile sample fractured at the St52 base metal because the ultimate strength of the St52 steel connection in both samples exceeded 480 MPa. In light of the tensile and bending test findings, the ESW process was approved in full for joining the beam to the column. No defect was found that would compromise the mechanical properties of the weld.

Keywords

Beam-to-column connection

Electroslag welding (ESW)

Steel structures

Mechanical properties

St52 Steel

Subjects

Mechanical Engineering

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