Microstructural Characterization and Mechanical Properties in Friction Stir Welding of AA6061 and AA6101 Aluminum Alloys

Abstract

In this research paper, two different metal plates of aluminum alloy viz. AA6061 and AA6101 were welded with friction stir welding process. Round tool and square tool pin profiles were used to weld the alloys. Weld microstructures, hardness, and tensile properties were evaluated in as-welded condition. The tensile strength of the joints fabricated with round tool pin profile were lower than the square tool pin profile because of the pulsating effect, in square tool pin profile this effect was produced along with the higher frictional forces. The micro-hardness of friction stir zone was higher than the base material due to active recrystallization occurrence which resulted in fine grain size in case of weld joint with round pin profile. Microstructure indicated uniformly distribution of materials with minimum heat affected zone and dense welded zone without any defects.