The effect of friction stir welding on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the dissimilar SS304 and Al7075-T6 alloy joints

Abstract

This study focuses on the friction stir welding (FSW) of dissimilar materials, Al7075 alloy and SS304 stainless steel, in a butt configuration. The objective is to examine the impact of different operating conditions, including tool rotational speed, transverse speed, and tool offset, on the FSW process of the dissimilar sheets. Mechanical properties, specifically the ultimate tensile strength, were found to be influenced by rotational speed. Higher rotational speed resulted in decreased tensile strength due to increased heat generation in the weld zone, leading to the formation of a thicker intermetallic layer. Higher tool rotational speed and greater transverse feed rate improved weld joint performance. Microstructural changes and deformation properties were investigated using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The FSW process caused significant grain refinement, creating a fine and equiaxed recrystallized grain structure. Intermetallic compounds like Al13Fe14, Al3Fe2, and Al3Mg2 were identified in the interface zone. In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the FSW of dissimilar materials. It sheds light on mechanical properties, microstructural changes, and intermetallic compound formation in the welded joint, contributing to the understanding of FSW for dissimilar materials.