Influence of the local brittle zone on HAZ CTOD was discussed. From weld HAZ CTOD tests and simulated HAZ CTOD tests, it was clarified that the local brittle zone of a multi-pass weld HAZ is intercritically reheated coarse-grained zone, where high-carbon martensitic island was formed. Factors influencing the formation and decomposition of high-carbon martensitic island (M*) in the intercritically reheated coarsegrained HAZ was investigated. Based on a simple estimation model of volume fraction of the M*, it became possible to estimate quantitatively the influencing factors on the formation and decomposition of the M*. It was clarified that combination of steel with low carbon, low microa110y chemical composition and suitable welding condition, such as application of preheating and thin weld bead placement, is important for reducing or eliminating the H*.
Since low CTOD (Crack-Tip Opening Displacement) value was obtained in a HAZ (Heat-Affected Zone) CTOD test of offshore structural steel in the early 1980s, extensive studies have been made to clarify the cause of the low CTOD value. It has been made clear that the low value was caused by the LBZ (Local Brittle Zone) in the HAZ. Factors influencing the microscopic toughness of the LBZ and measures to prevent low CTOD value have been studied (OMAE, 1988),(OMAE, 1989) and new steels which have high HAZ CTOD value have been developed (e.g. Chijiiwa et aI, 1988). For improving the LBZ toughness, selection of chemical composition which has low susceptibility to cleavage fracture is primarily important. In addition, selection of a suitable welding condition (heat input, preheating and bead placement etc.) is also important. For this purpose, it is of urgent necessity to elucidate these factors quantitatively. From this standpoint, the present paper will discuss the factors controlling the LBZ toughness.
