Effect of tool traverse speed on microstructure and mechanical performance of friction stir welded 7020 aluminum alloy

Abstract

The effect of tool traverse speed on microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded 7020-T6 aluminum alloy was investigated. For this purpose, 5 mm thick 7020-T6 aluminum alloy plates were friction stir welded at traverse speeds of 50, 100, 150, and 200 mm/min and constant rotational speed of 900 r/min. Also, the peak temperatures of the joints during friction stir welding were recorded by accurate thermocouples. Moreover, the microstructure, hardness, tensile properties, and fracture surfaces of the joints were examined. The results showed that increasing the tool traverse speeds from 50 to 200 mm/min decreased the peak temperature from 331 ℃ to 211 ℃, and hence caused to lower heat input during friction stir welding. Furthermore, the higher hardness and ultimate tensile strength of the joints welded at higher traverse speeds was related to the grain boundary, precipitation, and substructure strengthening mechanisms. In addition, the fracture surfaces of the joints welded at higher heat input conditions showed more ductile mode in comparison with those welded at lower heat input condition, which confirmed the lower tensile elongation of the joints welded at higher traverse speeds.