Characterization of properties in friction-welded austenitic-stainless steel and aluminium joints

Purpose - The main purpose of the present study was to evaluate the metallurgical and mechanical properties of dissimilar metal friction welds (FWs) between aluminium and type 304 stainless steel. Design/methodology/approach - One of the manufacturing methods used to produce parts made from different materials is the FW method. Therefore, in the present study, austenitic stainless steel and aluminium parts were joined by FW. Tensile, fatigue and notch-impact tests were applied to FW specimens, and the results were compared with those for the original materials. Microstructure, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and hardness variations were conducted on the joints. Findings - It was found from the microstructure and XRD analysis that inter-metallic phases formed in the interface which further caused a decrease in the strength of the joints. Research limitations/implications - In this study, the rotation speed was kept constant. The effects of the rotation speed on the welding quality can be examined in future. It is important to note that the FW process was successfully accomplished in this study although it was particularly difficult to obtain the weld due to the large deformations at the interface. Practical implications - Low-density components such as aluminium and magnesium can be joined with steels owing to being cost-effective in industry. Application of classical welding techniques to such materials is difficult because they have different thermal properties. Their welding plays a key part in industrial quality and process control, in the efficient use of energy and other resources, in health and safety. Then, this study will contribute for welded, brazed and soldered materials. Originality/value - The main value of this paper is to contribute and fulfill the influence of the interface on properties in welding of various materials that is being studied so far in the literature.