Joining of aluminium and copper materials with friction welding

Abstract

Industrial use of non-ferrous materials is significant in the electrical and the chemical engineering applications. Copper–aluminium joints are inevitable for certain applications due to unique performances such as higher electric conductivity, heat conductivity, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Friction welding is the most common method used due to material and energy saving. In the present study, copper and aluminium materials were joined by friction welding. Optimum parameters were obtained using a statistical approach. Tensile and microhardness tests were applied to the joints. Micro- and macrophotographs were examined. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis was used to determine the phases that occurred during welding. A grey layer was observed at the fracture surfaces of welded parts. It was considered that this layer decreased the strength of the joints.