Optimization of Process Parameters in Under Water Friction Stir Welded AA2014 and AA6082 joints.

Abstract

Abstract This work focuses on optimizing process parameters in underwater friction stir welding to study their impact on the mechanical characteristics of aluminum 2014 T6 and 6082 T6 joints. The aluminum plates are precisely machined to provide the necessary polish for the underwater friction stir welding process (UFSW). Experiments are designed using Taguchi L-9 orthogonal array, considering three process parameters: speed, transverse speed, and tool angles at three levels each. The aluminum plates of series 2014-T6 and 6082-T6 are securely installed in the machine. The plates will be welded using the UFSW process using a taper pin tool. The welded plates are next subjected to tests to assess their mechanical qualities. Tests for tensile strength, hardness, and impact strength are conducted on the welded area of the plate to determine its mechanical qualities. An ANOVA was conducted to determine the significant influence of each variable. The optimal values achieved are Tensile Strength of 185.592 N/mm2, Hardness of 75.1 (BHN), and Impact Strength of 21.236 Joules at a speed of 1120 rpm, transverse speed of 80 mm/min, and tilt angle of 2 degrees.