Evaluation of mechanical properties of friction stir welded commercially pure aluminium

In this study, friction stir welding (FSW) of commercially pure aluminium is carried out. The main defects existing in this process are cavity, irregular material flow due to unsuitable selection of welding parameters. In this study, to reduce the defects by selecting suitable parameter and welding quality determined by mechanical testing methods and non-destructive testing methods. Welding is done with preheating the base metals and without preheating the base metals and their effects are analyzed with similar parameter. The parameters considered for this work are spindle rotational speed (rpm), tool travel speed (mm/min) and axial force (kN). The experimental results are evaluated by Destructive Test and Non-destructive test methods. The characterization study is performed by Optical microscope and Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM).