Advances in friction stir welding of Ti6Al4V alloy complex geometries: T-butt joint with complete penetration

Abstract

AbstractIn this work, the friction stir weldability of Ti6Al4V T-joints has been investigated. Its aims are: (i) to study the influence of tool and welding parameters on weld quality, (ii) to assess the joints’ mechanical strength to foresee future applications, and (iii) to characterize Co-based FSW tools’ wear by following the wear during the tests. Welds’ defectivity is studied by cross-section macrographies analysis. Independently from welding parameters and tools, internal voids are avoided, and a suitable weldability window is identified. Microstructure observations have corroborated temperatures below the $$\beta $$ β -transus point even in the nugget zone, guaranteeing joints’ maximum mechanical strengths at 96% and 87% of the base material for UTS and Y, respectively. Contrarily, elongation at break is very low, without reaching 20% of the base material. The failure is linked to section thinning and kissing bond defects at the joints’ corners. Additionally, tool wear proved to be a critical issue while friction stir welding Ti6Al4V. The inner part of the shoulder is the most sensitive to wear. The consequent high wear rate might be a problem for mass production. The work established the pertinence of assembling complex geometries of Ti6Al4V using friction stir welding, considering weld quality and the mechanical strength achieved. However, critical factors such as section thinning, kissing bond, and tool wear must be carefully addressed to avoid joints’ low elongation at break and to guarantee their mechanical strength.