Microstructure and tensile properties of friction stir welded dissimilar AA6061-AA5086 aluminium alloy joints

The fusion welding of dissimilar heat treatable and non-heat treatable aluminium alloy faced many problems related to solidification. The difficulties can be overcome to achieve the combined beneficial properties of both aluminium alloys using friction stir welding (FSW). The microstructural features and tensile properties of friction stir welded (FSW) similar and dissimilar joints made of AA6061 and AA5086 aluminium alloys were investigated. The microstructures of various regions were observed and analyzed by means of optical and scanning electron microscopy. Microhardness was measured at various zones of the welded joints. The tensile properties of the joints were evaluated and correlated with the microstructural features and microhardness values. The dissimilar joint exhibits a maximum hardness of HV 115 and a joint efficiency of 56%. This was attributed to the defect free stir zone formation and grain size strengthening.