Influence of tool pin profile on mechanical and metallurgical behavior of friction stir welded AA6061-T6 and AA2017-T6 tailored blanks
N Malleswararao Battina, Varaha Siva Prasad Vanthala, Hari Krishna Chirala
Abstract
Abstract The heat-treated and artificially aged aluminium alloys of AA6061 and AA2017 are friction stir welded by employing five different tool pin profiles keeping the other process parameters constant. From this investigation, the mechanical properties of welded blanks were evaluated. The test results revealed that the straight square tool pin profile exhibited a higher ultimate tensile strength of 253 MPa with a tensile elongation of 6.7%. Higher Microhardness and joint efficiency were reported compared to other pin profiles. The microstructures at different zones of the welded joint were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. More Flowability indications with fine grain structure were examined for a straight square tool pin profile. The presence of intermetallic and the formation of fine-grain structures were accountable for the improvement in microhardness. The pulsating action of the square pin profile produced a defect-free joint.