Effects of Welding Parameters on Tensile Strength of Aluminium Alloy Joint Produced by Friction Stir Welding

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic approach to study the effects of welding parameters on tensile strength of aluminium alloy and joint produced by friction stir welding. The welding parameters such as tool shoulder diameter (D), tool rotational speed (N), welding speed (S) and axial force (F) play a major role in deciding the joint strength. In the present study an attempt has been made to join the 6mm thick AA5083 plate. The tensile specimen prepared as per the ASTM E8M-04. The K-type thermocouples are used to measure the temperature at different locations on the work piece using data acquisition system. Microstructure and micro hardness examination of the welded component is also carried out. Results of the study indicate that the maximum tensile strength found in the FSW welded joint is 75 % of the parent metal tensile strength.