Joining of AA2014 and AA5059 dissimilar aluminium alloys by Friction Stir Welding

Abstract

Purpose: This work aims to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties achieved by FSW of butt joints, namely of dissimilar sheets namely of 2014-T3 to 5059-H11 Al alloys by bonding the two materials perpendicular to their rolling directions. Design/methodology/approach: AA 2014T3 and AA 5059H11 were two dissimilar aluminium alloys friction stir welded. The joint has been examined in terms of hardness, microstructure, and mechanical properties. The microstructure of the weld area was characterized by using optical microscopy. Seven diverse regions of the microstructure in the joint can be illustrious. Findings: It has been noticed that a structure of fine grain is formed in the nugget region as a consequence of recrystallization. The thermos mechanically affected and heat affected zones of aluminium alloy 2014 are characterized by the lowest hardness values in spite of there are a general hardness decrease through the weld zone compared to both base metals. The ultimate tensile strength values of the dissimilar joint were found to be varying between 54% to 66% those of the base metal. Research limitations/implications: The t joining in FSW takes place with the base materials remnant in the solid state, which gives a considerable possibility to produce joints between the alleged difficult-to-weld heat treatable aluminium alloys. Originality/value: The outcomes display that friction stir welding can be effectively applied for the joining of dissimilar aluminium alloys.