Comparison between microstructure characteristics and joint performance of 5086-H32 aluminium alloy welded by MIG, TIG and friction stir welding processes

摘要

In this study, conventional fusion welding processes: MIG, TIG and solid state process friction stir welding (FSW) were applied to 6.45 mm thick plates of 5086-H32 aluminium alloy. The weldments were evaluated by performing microstructural examinations including light optical microscope (LOM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) and EDX analysis as well as hardness measurements. Mechanical testing has been done by means of tensile and bend tests. Fracture surfaces were examined by LOM and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Depending on the properties obtained, it has been determined that double pass friction stir welded joints of 5086-H32 aluminium alloy have superior properties than that of MIG and TIG welded joints.