Mechanical Properties of FSW Joints Magnesium Alloy at Different Rotational Speeds

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) has become a focus in the transportation industry due to its potential in reducing fuel consumption and gas emissions while improving recyclability. Mg alloys are also known for their low neutron absorption, good resistant of carbon dioxide as well as thermal conductivity which makes them suitable for use in industrial equipment for nuclear energy. there has been an increasing interest in the research and development of Mg alloys. These are the lightest of all metallic structural materials and are approximately 33% lighter than aluminium (Al) and 75% lighter than ferrous (Fe) alloys and have excellent specific mechanical properties. In this work, FSW of AZ31B Alloy was examined at the various rotational speeds of 900 -1440 rpm, with fixed welding speed of 40mm/min and 2° tool tilt angle using an HSS tool. The mechanical properties were compared for the different rotational speeds. The quality of FSW joints is dependent on input value of heat and material flow rate, which are prejudiced by process parameters., higher rotation speeds may cause abnormal stirring, resulting in a tunnel defect at the weld nugget due to increased strain rate and turbulence.