Abstract
This dataset captures the microstructural and mechanical property evolution across electron beam (EB) weldments in SA508 Grade 3 Class 1, a high-strength low-alloy steel used for nuclear reactor pressure vessels (RPV). The RPV is a critical safety structure and pressure boundary in a nuclear reactor, and as such, mechanical integrity is paramount. Historically, welds were undesirable in RPVs because of their embrittlement. However, advanced welding and manufacturing techniques offer the potential to overcome embrittlement, but they must first be qualified for use. Here, EB welds are made on SA508 manufactured by either powder metallurgy with hot isostatic pressing (PM-HIP) or forging. Scanning electron microscopy images and nanoindentation hardness measurements are collected across the weldments, along a trajectory normal to the weld centerline. Scanning electron microscopy image processing and stitching are described. These data support the determination of microstructure-mechanical property relationships in EB welded RPV steels. This dataset can be used to: (i) support qualification of EB welding and PM-HIP manufacturing for nuclear RPVs, (ii) demonstrate a high-throughput workflow for characterizing large-length scale microstructural heterogeneities, (iii) validate and verify predictive models, and (iv) train automated AI image analysis tools.