HAYNES^® HR-160^® alloy is readily weldable by Gas Tungsten Arc (TIG) and Gas Metal Arc (MIG) welding processes. Many of the alloy's welding characteristics are similar to those for the HASTELLOY^® alloys and the same precautions apply. Submerged arc welding is not recommended as this process is characterized by high heat input which could result in distortion and hot cracking. HR-160 filler metal is prone to start/stop cracking. The filler metal may be prone to hot cracking when welding heavy plate (e.g. greater than 1/2 inch thick) under highly restrained conditions. Any localized cracking should be removed by grinding prior to further welding. Do not attempt to remelt or "wash-out" welding cracks.

Base Metal Preparation
The joint surface and adjacent area should be thoroughly cleaned before welding. All grease, oil, crayon marks, sulfur compounds and other foreign matter should be removed. It is preferable, but not mandatory, that the alloy be in the solution-annealed condition when welded.

Filler Metal Selection
Matching composition filler metal is recommended for joining HR-160 alloy. When dissimilar base metals are to be jointed, such as HR-160 alloy to a stainless steel, HAYNES 556^®filler metal is recommended.

Preheating, Interpass Temperatures and Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Preheat should not be used so long as the base metal to be welded is above 32°F (0°C). Interpass temperatures should be less than 200°F (93°C). Auxiliary cooling methods may be used between weld passes, as needed, providing that such methods do not introduce contaminants. Post-weld heat treatment is not normally required for HR-160 alloy.

Nominal Welding Parameters
Nominal welding parameters are provided as a guide for performing typical operations. These are based on welding conditions used in our laboratory and should be considered only as a guideline. For further information, please consult Haynes publication H-3159.