Abstract
5052 aluminum alloy sheet of 5 mm in thickness was welded by Friction Stir Welding (FSW). Effect of shape of probe on the mechanical properties of joint was investigated. The welding defect was observed on the advancing side independent of the shape of probe, and it was increasing with increased welding speed. Regardless of the shape of probe and welding speed, the soften area was observed on heat affected zone. The width of soften area became narrower with increasing of the welding speed. Both maximum tensile strength and elongation of welded joint was obtained using a Type D tool. The maximum tensile strength of the joint was 94% and elongation was 68% to those of the base metal. The joints which used Type C and D tools were fractured at the boundary of heat affected zone and stirring part of the retreating side, but joints using Type A and B tools were fractured at stirring part.
