Effect of friction stir welding parameters on the material flow, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of dissimilar AA5083-AA6061 joints

Abstract

Material flow has a significant impact on the joint properties and is one of the most challenging aspects to be understood in dissimilar friction stir welding. The present study emphasizes the role of process parameters on material flow, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of dissimilar friction stir welds of AA5083-AA6061. Microstructural analysis revealed that the onion ring sub-layer width observed at the stir zone was substantially changed by varying process parameters. It was understood that the higher rotational speeds promote better intermixing and enhanced mechanical properties. The notch tensile strength values were in correlation with the intermixing of materials at the stir zone and the highest notch tensile strength value was obtained at 1400 rpm and 60 mm/min. A remarkable degree of material intermixing and fragmentation of intermetallics at higher rotational speeds resulted in better corrosion resistance.