Effect of double-sided friction stir welding on the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of AA5754 aluminium alloy

Abstract

AA5754Al alloy is widely used in industry. However, as in the case of all Al alloys, the 5xxx series Al alloys cannot be easily joined through fusion welding techniques. To address this problem, in this study, the effect of double-sided friction stir welding at various tool rotational speeds (450, 710, and 900 rpm), feeding rates (40, 50, and 80 mm x min(-1)), and tool tilt angles (0 degrees, 1 degrees, 2 degrees) on the welding parameters and mechanical and microstructural characteristics of AA5754 Al alloy was determined. Tensile strength tests and microhardness tests were performed to examine the mechanical properties of the welded specimens. The microstructures of the welded zone were examined by obtaining optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images. The tensile test results indicated that the specimens exhibited the highest welding performance of 95.17 % at a tool rotational speed, feed rate, and tool tilt angle of 450 rpm, 50 mm x min(-1) and 1 degrees, respectively.