TWI

Single run friction stir welding (FSW) experiments were undertaken on plate specimens (thickness 6 mm) of 7A60-T6 aluminium alloys (Al, 8.89%Zn, 2.74%Mg, 2.26%Cu) and the relationship between process parameters, microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated. Samples were longitudinally butt welded at tool rotational speeds of 200-600 rpm and traverse speeds of 100-200 mm/min. Microstructure was observed by optical microscopy and fracture surfaces were examined using SEM equipped with an energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy system. Mechanical properties were characterised by Vickers microhardness profile measurements and tensile tests in an electromechanically controlled universal testing machine. Issues discussed include equiaxed grain structure in the nugget and hardness profiles in the HAZ and thermomechanically affected zone.

9th International Symposium, 15-17 May 2012, Poster Session, Paper 01