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Welder Red Seal · Question

An inspection report indicates excessive residual stress and potential hydrogen-assisted cracking in thick-section FCAW-G welds on high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel. The welding parameters (voltage, amperage, travel speed) were all within the WPS. Which of the following is most effective in mitigating this issue during welding?

For HSLA steels, especially thick sections, high residual stress and hydrogen-assisted cracking are major concerns. Implementing a higher preheat and maintainin

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Question: An inspection report indicates excessive residual stress and potential hydrogen-assisted cracking in thick-section FCAW-G welds on high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel. The welding parameters (voltage, amperage, travel speed) were all within the WPS. Which of the following is most effective in mitigating this issue during welding?

Answer options:

  • Switching to a different shielding gas, such as 100% Argon ✅ Implementing a higher preheat and controlled interpass temperature
  • Increasing the wire feed speed to deposit metal faster
  • Decreasing the root opening to reduce weld volume

Correct answer: Implementing a higher preheat and controlled interpass temperature

Explanation: For HSLA steels, especially thick sections, high residual stress and hydrogen-assisted cracking are major concerns. Implementing a higher preheat and maintaining a controlled interpass temperature slows the cooling rate of the weld, allowing more time for hydrogen to diffuse out and reducing the formation of brittle microstructures, thereby mitigating these issues. Changing shielding gas or adjusting wire feed speed without considering thermal management is unlikely to address the root cause.

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