Effect of axial force on microstructure and tensile properties of friction stir welded AZ61A magnesium alloy

The influences of axial force on tensile properties of friction stir welded AZ61A magnesium alloy were studied. Five different values of axial forces ranging from 3 to 7 kN were used to fabricate the joints. Tensile properties of the joints were evaluated and correlated with the stir zone microstructure and hardness. From this investigation, it is found that the joint fabricated with an axial force of 5 kN exhibits superior tensile properties compared to other joints. The formation of finer grains in the stir zone and higher hardness of the stir zone are the main reasons for the superior tensile properties of these joints.