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Matchless in Stainless wires for NASA liquid hydrogen pressure vessel

9 October 2019 | 

Customer Didion’s Mechanical asked for a product recommendation and technical assistance with a cryogenic pressure vessel application.

AVESTA FCW 308L/MVR Cryo

Didion’s Mechanical is a leading pressure vessel fabricator in Ohio, USA, with a reputable industry standing of over 35 years. For their project on a liquid hydrogen vessel at a NASA Research Center and due to the critical nature of this tank and the very strict requirements, Didion’s Mechanical put their trust in Böhler Welding products as well as the expertise of the Böhler Welding Application Engineers.

Böhler Welding was able to meet all requirements:

  • min. 0.021in (0.53 mm) lateral expansion at -320°F (-196°C)
  • ferrite level of 4-14
  • Using FCAW, SMAW, and SAW processes

The team of Application Engineers decided to work with the Avesta FCW 308L/MVR Cryo wire as it is designed for welding austenitic stainless steels of EN 1.4301 / ASTM 304 type with very good corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties in cryogenic conditions thanks to its controlled ferrite content.

Avesta FCW 308L/MVR Cryo is designed for all-round welding and can be used in all positions without changing the parameter settings. It offers very good slag detachability and almost no spatter formation.

Find more information about the Matchless in Stainless success story in the download area or here:

Matchless in Stainless wires for NASA liquid hydrogen pressure vessel (English (American) |pdf | 1,63 MB)

Matchless in Stainless

Stainless steel welding is a complex mix of metallurgy, chemistry, geometry and aesthetics. Knowledge and skill are essential in achieving optimum properties and surface finishes.

Our extensive research and development activities are closely attuned to the needs and wishes expressed by customers worldwide. The pooling of expertise enables us to give the best possible advice on the selection of stainless steels, welding consumables and methods.

Find more information about stainless steel and our Matchless in Stainless product portfolio here: Stainless