TWI

Tensile tests, computed tomography and documentation of process forces were employed to investigate the weldability of 1.4310 austenitic stainless steel reinforced extruded AW-6060 alloy (Al, 0.35-0.6%Mg, 0.6%Si) by friction stir welding, and the relationship between process parameters, tool configurations and joint properties was examined. The process parameters varied during welding were rotation speed (750-1500 rpm) and welding speed (100-400 mm/min). Two extrusions were welded in butt joints and the weld properties were evaluated by tensile tests and metallographic analysis. The reinforcing elements were visualised by computed tomography. Comparisons of tensile strength and process forces for non-reinforced and reinforced material were undertaken.

7th International Symposium, 20-22 May 2008, 4A: Process/Microstructure 1, Paper 02