Optimization of Friction Stir Processing Parameters for Improvement of Mechanical Properties of AlSi7Mg0.2 Alloy

Abstract

This paper investigates the effects of Friction Stir Processing (FSP) parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of an Al-Si7Mg0.2 alloy. The study’s findings indicate that augmenting the rotational velocity of the tool in the context of Friction Stir Processing can reduce grain size and enhance the alloy’s mechanical properties. The optimization of process temperature plays a vital role in managing the thermal profile and preventing undesirable consequences such as overheating or excessive cooling. These adverse effects can significantly impact the microstructure and properties of the alloy. The finer grain size of the FSPed samples resulted from the intense plastic deformation and dynamic recrystallization during the process. This grain refinement improved hardness, wear, and corrosion resistance. The temperature distribution during FSP using finite element simulation was highly dependent on the process parameters, such as the rotational speed and the dwell time. The results of this study are employed to develop a fitting model to predict the temperature distribution along the workpiece during the dwelling stage, which can be used to optimize the process parameters for different applications. The optimization of the heat generation inside the stirred zone plays a vital role in managing the thermal profile and preventing undesirable consequences such as overheating or excessive cooling. These adverse effects can significantly impact the microstructure and properties of the alloy.

Multi-response Optimisation Applied on Friction Stir Processing to Enhanced Wear and Corrosion performance in Al-Si Alloys

“…The optimisation of the FSP process parameters of Al-Si alloys to improve their microstructure and mechanical and tribological properties has been investigated by several authors [12][13][14]. Alzahrani et al [12] investigated the effects of FSP parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of an Al-Si 7 Mg 0.2 alloy.…”

“…The optimisation of the FSP process parameters of Al-Si alloys to improve their microstructure and mechanical and tribological properties has been investigated by several authors [12][13][14]. Alzahrani et al [12] investigated the effects of FSP parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of an Al-Si 7 Mg 0.2 alloy. The authors stated that optimisation of heat generation inside the stirred zone plays a vital role in managing the thermal pro le and preventing adverse effects that impact the microstructure and properties of the alloy.…”

The Influence of Multi-Pass Friction Stir Processing on the Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of IS2062 Steel

“…The depth of the penetration of the tool pin [16] into the work-piece is maintained, so as to ensure the appropriate contact between the work-piece surface and the tool shoulder. Friction stir processing is becoming a popular manufacturing process for surface modification with enhancements in mechanical properties [17][18][19][20].…”