Inspection
Work Planning
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The portion of a base material whose microstructure and mechanical properties have been altered by the heat generated during welding or thermal cutting.
The Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ) is the region of parent material adjacent to a weld or thermal cutting operation that has not melted but has experienced changes in microstructure and mechanical properties due to elevated temperatures. Depending on the material and welding process, the HAZ may exhibit changes in hardness, strength, toughness, corrosion resistance or residual stress.
Understanding the Heat-Affected Zone is essential when developing welding procedures, qualifying welds and assessing structural integrity, fatigue performance and susceptibility to cracking.
The size and properties of the HAZ depend on factors including material composition, heat input, cooling rate, joint design and any post-weld heat treatment applied.
The Heat-Affected Zone differs from the weld metal itself because the material has not melted; only its properties have been modified by the thermal cycle.
Materials Engineering; Welding; Mechanical Integrity.
Welding.; Fabrication.; Pressure vessels.; Pipelines.; Structural steel.
ASME BPVC Section IX; AWS A3.0
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