Optimization of Automatic TIG Welding Parameters of AISI 304L ASS Welds Using Response Surface Methodology

The present study, aims to investigate, under welding parameters of current, voltage and gas flow, the effects of welding parameters on tensile strength of AISI 304L ASS welds using response surface methodology (RSM). The RSM and variance analysis (ANOVA) were used to check the validity of quadratic regression model and to determine the significant parameter affecting tensile strength of welds. Hence, ANOVA clearly revealed that the contribution of each factor is 71.40% of voltage, 19.2% of current and 8.30% of gas flow. It was found that combined contributions of welding parameters contributes significantly to the metallurgical changes by varying fractions, morphology and grain size of metallic compounds. Furthermore, the optimum automatic welding conditions lead to produce the best possible weld quality in the range of our experiment using desirability function approach for single response of RSM optimization factors, in which it concluded that tensile strength components are influenced principally by voltage. Finally, the ranges for best welding conditions are proposed for serial industrial production.