Welding Inspection & Metallurgy API ICP Self Study Notes

Weldability of austenitic stainless steels can also be affected by the presence
of high levels of low melting point elements like;
■ sulfur,
■ phosphorus,
■ selenium,
■ silicon and
■ columbium,
All of which will increase hot cracking susceptibility. Distortion is more often a
problem with welding of austenitic stainless steels than carbon or low-alloy
steels. The thermal conductivity of austenitic stainless steels is about
one third that of carbon steel and the coefficient of thermal expansion is
about 30% greater. This means that distortion is greater for austenitic
stainless steels than for carbon steels. More frequent tack welds may be
necessary for stainless steels to limit shrinkage.