Influence of Friction Stir Welding Parameters on Axial Forces and Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Alloy 7075

Abstract

AbstractFriction stir welding (FSW) process was widely used in many industries due to using of aluminium was rising for light-weight design. It was generally known that some grades of aluminium have low melting weldability which might lead to cracks, porosity, warping and deformation, such as 7075 aluminum alloy. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of FSW parameters on the axial forces and mechanical properties of Aluminium alloy 7075. The three welding parameters were studied, rotation speed, welding speed and stir tool shoulder diameter. The experiment was performed on force measuring fixture with three-axis vertical milling machine. Shoulder diameter was the only main effect that significantly affect to axial force. The minimum axial force was 3205 N with rotational speeds of 1580 rpm, welding speed of 63 mm/min and shoulder diameter 15 mm which gave tensile strength of 325 MPa or 67% of based material. On the other hand, shoulder diameter and welding speed were the main effects which significantly affect tensile strength. The maximum tensile strength was 331 MPa or 68% of base metal with rotational speeds of 1580 rpm, welding speed of 36 mm/min and shoulder diameter 9 mm.KeywordsFriction stir weldingAluminum alloyAl7075Tensile strengthAxial forces