The Effects of Friction Stir Welding Parameters on Microstructure, Fatigue Life and Tensile Properties of Aluminum 2024-T3 Alloy

Abstract

In this study, Al 2024-T3 alloy plates were joined by using friction stir welding. Welding was performed at a rotational speed of 930, 1450, 2280 rpm and a welding feed rate of 180 mm min −1. The welded samples were analyzed at the microstructural level. Moreover, both bending fatigue tests and tensile tests were performed on samples. At the end of the microstructural examination of the samples welded at the rotational speed of 930 rpm and the welding feed rate of 180 mm min −1, the formation of tunnel defects was observed. The highest fatigue life was obtained at 2280 rpm and 180 mm min −1. The lowest fatigue life was obtained at 930 rpm and 180 mm min −1. The highest ultimate tensile stress was obtained at 2280 rpm/180 mm min –1 sample, which shows about a 12% reduction relative to the base material. The lowest ultimate tensile stress was obtained at 930 rpm/180 mm min –1 sample. The ultimate tensile stress value of the 930 rpm/180 mm min –1 sample decreased by approximately 25%.

Keywords

• friction stir welding
• microstructure
• fatigue life
• tensile properties
• al 2024-t3