Experimental Thermal Analysis in Rotary Friction Welding of Dissimilar Materials

Rotary friction welding process (RFW) is one of the most used processes in the world for manufacturing bimetallic components that require high mechanical strength. All process occurs in solid state at temperatures below the melting point of the involved materials, having as the main bonding mechanisms the diffusion and mechanical mixture. The purpose of this work was to carry out an experimental thermal analysis of the dissimilar joint AA6351 T6 aluminum and AISI 304L stainless steel during the friction welding operation through system of thermocouples. Gradients of temperature obtained had their data analyzed and recorded. Results of the experimental thermal analysis showed the behavior of the temperature in the bonding interface, how the dissipation occurs in the radial and longitudinal direction, heating rates, cooling, maximum temperatures reached, its relationship with the different stages of the process and the influence on mechanical properties of welded joint. This study is of great importance for relating the temperature distribution in the bonding interface with atomic diffusion and mechanical resistance of junction.