Interface Microstructure Characteristics of Friction-Welded Joint of Titanium to Stainless Steel with Interlayer

Dissimilar joining between stainless steel and titanium by friction welding enhances the metallurgical compatibility and properties of the interface. The severity of the formation of intermetallic compounds is inhibited up to some extent. However, the complete prevention of the Fe–Ti and Cr–Ti type of intermetallic compounds cannot occur. In this study, the interlayer technique has been applied to develop friction-welded joints between dissimilar materials. Tantalum is one of the candidate materials to act as an interlayer between titanium and stainless steel and can form ample metallurgical compatibility with both of the substrates. The interface between stainless steel and interlayer exhibited the presence of a mixed region. The diffusion of titanium atoms into the interlayer is revealed along with the interface of titanium to an interlayer. The electron probe microanalyzer characterized the diffusion of atoms at interfaces. The microhardness survey unveiled the increasing hardness over the stainless steel and interlayer interface.