Friction stir welding of lap joints: Influence of process parameters on the metallurgical and mechanical properties

In this paper, an experimental and numerical investigation on the lap joining of AA2198-T4 aluminum alloy blanks by FSW is presented. In particular the joints strength and metallurgical properties are investigated by varying the joint configuration and the tool geometry and rotational speed. It is found that the use of cylindrical-conical pin tools and the correct choice of the relative sheet positioning increase the welded nugget extension and integrity improving the mechanical performances of the obtained joints.