Optimization of friction stir welding process parameters of aluminium alloy AA7075-T6 by using Taguchi method

Abstract

Taguchi technique has been used to determine the most important control variables that will result in greater mechanical characteristics (tensile strength and hardness) of FSW joints of comparable AA 7075 plates. To optimize process parameters including tool rotatory speed, weld travel velocity on tensile strength and hardness of friction stir welded similar AA 7075 aluminium alloy, Taguchi Design of Experiment (DOE) and optimization method was used. The optimum levels of process parameters were identified by using the Taguchi parametric design concept. The results show that welding speed is more contributing process parameter than the rotation speed in getting optimum mechanical property (UTS and HV). The forecasted optimal values of ultimate tensile strength and hardness of friction stir welded similar AA 7075 is 197 Mpa and 93 HRB respectively. Further tests proved these results.