A novel counter-rotating twin-tool friction stir processing technology for fabrication of Al/SiC surface composite with improved particle distribution

Abstract

The fabrication of surface composite through friction stir processing (FSP) introduces certain challenges, including insufficient heat generation and non-uniform distribution of reinforcement particles. The implementation of multi-pass FSP can partially reduce these issues; however, it comes at the cost of increased manufacturing time and labour costs. In order to address these challenges comprehensively, a novel counter-rotating twin-tool friction stir processing (CRTTFSP) technology was utilized for fabrication of Al/SiC surface composite. The presence of hard SiC particles notably improved the microhardness of the composite. High heat generation and counter-rotation of the twin-tool, contributed to better particle distribution, which led to consistent microhardness values. Hence, this technology offers uniform mechanical properties of the fabricated composite and also eliminates the need of repetitive processing over the same zone, resulting in considerable reductions in both manufacturing time and associated costs making it more suitable for industrial applications.