Experimental Investigations on Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Welded AA2024-T3 Joints

Abstract

Friction stir welding is a promising solid state metal joining technique. It can be used to join AA2024-T3 metal plates which cannot be welded using normal fusion welding. Post weld joint efficiency depends completely on the proper selection of process variables as the required heat input for this process is not supplied by an external source but an internal function of the variables. Apart from the process variables tool pin shape also plays a vital role on the delivery of better weld strength. A comparative experimental analysis was done to understand the improvement in the post weld properties on the usage of non-cylindrical tool pin. In order to optimise major process variable for cylindrical as well as non-cylindrical tool pin geometries thermal study had been carried out and optimum heat input conditions were analysed for AA2024-T3 plates. Comparative analyses on friction stir weld joints were made qualitatively and quantitatively to understand the improvement on the introduction of non- cylindrical flat faced pin in the tool.