Investigation on TIG welding of SiCp-reinforced aluminum–matrix composite using mixed shielding gas and Al–Si filler

Using He–Ar mixed gas as shielding gas, the tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding of SiCp/6061 Al composites was investigated without and with Al–Si filler. Welded joint with filler were submitted to tensile tests. The microstructure and fracture morphology of the joint were examined. The results show that adding 50 vol.% helium in shielding gas improves the arc stability, and seams with high-quality appearance are obtained when the Al–Si filler is added. In addition, the interface reaction between SiC and matrix is greatly suppressed when using Al–Si filler. The microstructure of the welded joint displays non-uniformity with many SiC particles distributing in the weld center. The average tensile strength of weld joints with Al–Si filler is 70% above that of the matrix composites under annealed condition.