Prediction of friction stir welding defect-Free joints of aisi 304 austenitic stainless steel through axial force profile understanding

Abstract

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) joints of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel (304 SS) using position controlled mode were investigated in order to understand and relate axial force behavior to welding quality. Joints were produced using two tools and four combinations of specific parameters. The results showed coherence between the axial force profiles and the low-magnification overviews of the welded joints. For defect-free joints, only a natural oscillation on axial force occurred after tool plunge. In contrast, abnormal or abrupt oscillations were directly associated with common welding defects, such as voids and nugget collapse.