Effect of tool tilt angle on weld joint properties of friction stir welded AISI 316L stainless steel sheets

摘要

The effect of tool tilt angle on mechanical and metallographic characteristics of friction stir welded AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel joints was investigated. Three experimental trials were performed between 0 degrees to 3 degrees in steps of 1.5 degrees, while keeping the other primary FSW parameters constant (tool rotational speed of 600 rpm, welding speed of 45 mm/min and axial load of 11 kN). The experimental findings prove that the tool tilt angle has significant effect on dynamic volume of the stir zone, peak temperature and the intensity of the shear band formation in the weld zone. The weld joint made at 1.5 degrees was the best tool tilt axis that exhibited higher strength and superior microstructural features leading to onion ring formation at the weld stir zone. 0 degrees tilt angle resulted in slight shoulder plunge whereas, 3 degrees tilt angle paved the way to the formation of void in the weld zone. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.