A Study on the Effect of Parameters on the Tensile Strength of Friction Stir Welded AA6061 1.5 mm Thin Plate Butt-Joints

Although fusion welding of aluminium alloys is the most common method used for welding in the industry, it is always accompanied by defects like porosity, solidification, and cracking. Friction stir welding, which is a unique welding method that does not undergo a melting process has been invented and promotes a defect-free welded joint. Nevertheless, some hindrances like severe softening in the heat affected zone (HAZ), and defects like pin-hole and crack formation will potentially occur due to an improper plastic flow of the materials. These defects can lead to a decrease in the tensile properties of the welded materials. Since the welding parameters play a major role in deciding the weld quality, this experiment considers the effects of using different rotational speeds and tool traverse speeds on the strength of the welded joint. Furthermore, defects that may occur during the welding process of aluminium thin plates also were determined.