Microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded oxide dispersion strengthened alloy

Effect of friction stir welding (FSW) on microstructure and mechanical properties of oxide dispersion strengthened alloy MA956 was investigated. Fine grained microstructure was developed in the processed region with slight particle coarsening. Tensile behavior of the processed material was compared with that of the as-received material at room temperature. Results indicated that significant grain refinement during FSW compensated for the reduced particle strengthening contribution and enhanced tensile strength by 145 MPa without loss in ductility. Further analysis indicated a good agreement between experimentally measured yield strength and the strength calculated by Pythagorean superimposition of strengthening contribution in FSWed material.