Sandvik Steel has launched a new range of welding wire, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding nuclear steam generator tubing. Designated Sanicro 68, Sanicro 69 and Sanicro 69HP and corresponding to international standard AWS NiCrFe–7, the new range represents the next generation of consumables for new build and refurbishment nuclear projects. It offers significant improvements in properties. The challenge for Sandvik was to develop consumables which are resistant to micro-fissuring and have the required mechanical properties after the long post weld heat treatment necessary for this particular application. The range has been developed with an increased chromium content resulting in better resistance to stress corrosion cracking as well as improved resistance to general and intergranular corrosion. Supplied for joining Alloy 690 and Alloy 600 steels – Sandvik’s Sanicro 68 and Sanicro 69 – the new consumables complement Sandvik’s supply of Sanicro 69 steam generator tubes. They are also used for overlay welding applications in the nuclear industry.
