Flange joining using friction stir welding and tungsten inert gas welding of AA6082: A comparison based on joint performance

Abstract

Expanding the use of 6xxx aluminum alloy series in various industries is challenging due to the need for cost-effective welding processes and optimal settings to ensure high-quality joints. The present research focused on the comparison of joint performance of the pipes and plates using tungsten inert gas (TIG) and friction stir welding (FSW) The AA6082 alloy material is used for pipes and plates used in the study. Various techniques were utilized, including hardness and tensile tests, and microstructural examinations. Using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), the surface fracture of the specimens that failed under tensile tension was also examined. The present research also included the economic impact on the welding processes used. Results demonstrated that the weld obtained using FSW was defects free whereas, internal flaws were seen in TIG welded samples. The hardness value increased over the base material (BM) for the FSW and TIG by 31-35% and 46-40%, respectively. The FSW joint was welded at a maximum UTS of 3 mm/min and a rotational speed of 3000 rpm. FSW can create the AA60682 flange joints more efficiently and effectively than fusion welding procedures like TIG processes in pipeline applications. For AA6082 flange joints, overall total cost comparisons between FSW and TIG were also made.