Examination of friction coefficient in friction welding process of tubular steel elements

Abstract

The paper presents a research on the relationship between friction coefficient and friction pressure (6 MPa, 12 MPa, 16.5 MPa), rotational speed (1000 rpm, 1400 rpm, 2000 rpm) and surface temperature during traditional friction welding. Values of friction pressure force and friction torque were read on an oscilloscope connected to a piezoelectric sensor and temperature was measured with a thermovision camera on circumference of the welding surface and in the heat-affected zone. Friction was measured between two tubular elements OD 18 mm x WT 2 mm. It was found that the friction coefficient is dependent mostly on pressure force and temperature. Its value ranges from 0.12 to 0.83, with the top value at 16.5 MPa and 1400 rpm.