Multi-objective parametric optimization of FSW for mechanical properties of AA5083 joint

Abstract

The solid-state joining process named Friction Stir Welding (FSW) overcomes the problems which were arose due to the diffusion of base material during conventional welding procedures. Basically the soft materials such as aluminium alloys were very difficult to join by the diffusion welding processes. The recasting of these alloys caused the unwanted grain growth along with others casting defects. The industries like aerospace require higher quality of welding joints of aluminium alloys. So, solid state welding process FSW is utilized for this purpose. The quality of FSW joints and the success of the process are depending on the combination of parameters. So, the optimization of process parameters is important for an efficient FSW process. The present study is an effort to optimize the process parameters i.e. tool Rotational speed (RS), transverse Welding Speed (WS), and pin diameter (PD). The weld joints were tested for tensile strength (TS) and tensile elongation (EL). ANOVA test was performed to check the significance of considered process parameters. All considered parameters were found significantly affected the responses. To optimize the parameters for multi-objective the Gray Relation Analysis (GRA) was used. The results revealed that all three process parameters significantly affected the responses. The combination of 1900 RPM of RS, 30 mm/min WS and 5 mm PD were suggested as a set of optimal parameters by GRA.