Parameter optimization: Force (F), time (T) and current intensity (I), in the RSW welding process of DP-290 steel plates using the taguchi method

Abstract

Automotive industries are trying to use new light materials for structural parts of vehicles. However, the steels are being the best manufacturing material option in the automotive industry. One of the advanced steels commonly used due to the high mechanical properties is the Dual Phase Steel (Ferritic-Martensitic). Therefore, the welding process is still very important and a matter of improvement. The present work shows the design of an experimental matrix using the Taguchi method with the optimal parameters to apply in the spot welding process (RSW) of a DP-290 steel; the metallographic characterization, the microhardness and the Peel tests were also carried out in each specimen. The results determined that the lower intensity of current and a medium pressure for a longer time the better resistance to tearing, due to the microstructural changes in the specimens.