Influence of SiC Nanoparticle Reinforcement on FSS Welded 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy

S Suresh,K Venkatesan,Elango Natarajan

doi:10.1155/2018/7031867

Abstract

The current research focuses on the mechanical properties and the microstructural behavior of friction stir spot-welded 6061-T6 aluminum alloy reinforced with SiC nanoparticles. Weld samples are produced with and without the addition of SiC nanoparticles to the joint. The microhardness and lap shear strength of the joints are investigated. The cross section of welds and the fracture surfaces are studied by a stereo zoom microscope. Microstructure and distribution of reinforced particles in the stir zone are examined through optical and scanning electron microscopies. It is observed that the reinforcement of SiC nanoparticles significantly influences the grain size and hence the weld properties. The highest hardness of 93 HV and the maximum shear load of 2650.5 N are observed at the stir zone of the sample with 29% SiC. All the weld samples exhibit the similar “W” shape hardness profile. From the observed results, the selected set of process parameters is found adequate in order to fabricate sound Al/SiC composite joints.

Highlights

Aluminum alloys attract the industries because of their attributes such as low density, high specific strength, good castability, and excellent thermal conductivity
The hardness of the SZ increases with increase in the volume fraction of SiC nanoparticles
In the Al matrix, as the SiC nanoparticle is distributed in the harder space, it influences grain size, refinement of grains, and different thermal contraction of the Al matrix and filler material [24, 25, 31]

Summary

Introduction

Aluminum alloys attract the industries because of their attributes such as low density, high specific strength, good castability, and excellent thermal conductivity. A sort of frictional heat is produced at the interface of the workpiece and the tool, and a solid state bond of a fine-grained microstructure is provided by the plastic deformation between the upper and lower sheets [4, 5]. It is used as the superior replacement for the resistance spot-welding process, especially for aluminum and steel for which better mechanical properties and environmental and metallurgical behavioral are achieved [6, 7]

Methods

Results

Conclusion