ABSTRACT
Low strain rate tensile testing of four large bead on plate specimens was used to evaluate the effect varying levels of diffusible hydrogen will have on the mechanical properties of single bead high strength ferritic steel weldments. The tensile test results show that diffusible hydrogen has a role in the strengthening mechanisms of high strength steel weldments. However, a progressive decrease in elongation (toughness) was also observed with each increase in the level of diffusible hydrogen. HD levels above 3 ml/100 g had the potential to diminish the mechanical properties of high strength steel weldments. An increase in the HD level from 2.3 ml/100 g to 6.5 ml/100 g decreased the elongation of the high strength steel weld metal from 28 mm to 19 mm, a decrease of 32%.
