Evaluation of Joining Strength on Similar and Dissimilar Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum Alloys

Abstract

In this study, 6061 aluminum alloy and 5052 aluminum alloy were welded homogeneously and dissimilarly by friction stirring, and the joint strength was evaluated by analyzing the detailed fracture mechanism. Furthermore, the effect of changing the stirring direction on the joint strength was also investigated. The joint strength was greater for upward stirring than downward stirring for both homogeneous and heterogeneous joints. The joint strength can be evaluated in a single sense by the hardness of the heat-affected zone (fracture zone), which is softened by the heat generated during friction stirring.