Mechanical properties and microstructure of aluminium alloy AW6082-T6 joints welded by double-sided MIG process before and after aging

Abstract

This study focuses on welding of AW6082-T6 aluminium alloy and investigation of the microhardness and microstructure properties in the heat affected and fusion zones using pulsed inert gas arc welding. The effect of welding current on microstructure and solidification variables of the double-sided welds has been studied. The microhardness analysis of the welded joints has been carried out to evaluate the effect of microstructural variations of the weld seam zones. A comparison research on the microhardness and microstructure of opposite sides of the weld after natural aging is presented. The results indicate that the influence of natural long-term aging on the microhardness of the weld seam zones is evident.