Micro structural evaluation of friction stir welded aluminium alloy 6063

Abstract

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a vital solid-state process that can produce a joint with high quality and strength. The microstructure of the friction stir welded parts needs to be studied to use this method for multiple applications. FSW eliminates fusion fastening issues such as crack, porosity, and shrinking solidification. In the present work, AA6063 material was welded with prominent parameters, rotational speed, transverse speed, and axial load. The microstructure of distinct weld regions including the nugget area, heat affected zone, thermo-mechanically affected zone, and parent metal has been examined by optical microscopy. In this investigation the fine equiaxed grains were observed in the thermo-mechanically affected zone and nugget zone of various samples.