Optimization of friction stir process parameters in fabricating AA6061/SiCp composites

In recent years, Metal Matrix Composites (MMC) based on AA6061 aluminum alloys is being used in several engineering applications. Out of various fabricating techniques available, Friction Stir Processing (FSP) has successfully evolved as an alternative technique for fabricating MMC. In the present work AA6061/SiCp composites were successfully fabricated using FSP. Taguchi experimental design and optimization approach was applied to determine the combination of most influential process parameters that yield better tensile strength. Experimental data collected were tested with analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Through Taguchi's approach, the optimum levels of process parameters were determined. The predicted optimal value of tensile strength of FSP fabricated AA6061/SiCp composite is 189 MPa. Further the results were verified by the confirmation experiments. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education