The effects of plasma disruption simulation on AISI 316L stainless steel

The behavior of AISI 316L stainless steel during a disruption simulation is investigated by means of an electron beam gun, and the melt depth is evaluated. The trials are performed on cylindrical samples in the energy density range between 1 and 10 MJ m−2 under static and dynamic conditions. The discharge times range from 1 to 20 ms. The results of melt depth measurements on AISI 316L specimens are described and compared with the predictions of a one-dimensional model. The type of resolidification in the melt pool is also investigated.