Question:

What is the main problem when welding stainless steels, particularly in the HAZ (Heat-Affected Zone)?

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Always remember that carbide precipitation in HAZ reduces corrosion resistance by depleting chromium, the key alloying element in stainless steel.
Updated On: Jun 20, 2025
  • Formation of carbides at grain boundaries
  • Decrease in hardness
  • Increased toughness
  • Formation of excessive martensite
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

When stainless steels are welded, the area near the weld—known as the heat-affected zone (HAZ)—can reach temperatures high enough to precipitate chromium carbides at the grain boundaries.
This phenomenon is called sensitization.
The chromium depletion around these carbides makes the grain boundaries susceptible to corrosion, especially intergranular corrosion, leading to failure in service.
This is a critical issue in applications where corrosion resistance is essential.
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