Effect of friction stir welding process parameters on Mg-AZ31B/Al-AA6061 joints

In the present study, dissimilar alloys such as Mg-AZ31B and Al-AA6061 were joined by friction stir welding using different rotational (560, 710, 860 and 1010 rpm) and transverse speeds (16 and 25 mm/min). Metallographic studies (by optical, scanning electron microscope, SEM, and energy dispersive spectrometer, EDS) revealed that the speed parameters mainly influenced the microstructure growth mechanism, which further affects the mechanical properties and corrosion behavior. The combined dynamic action of rotational to transverse speed recrystallized and plasticized the material and produced an alternative lamellar shear band of Al and Mg in the stir zone (SZ). Peak temperature and high rotational speed formed an oxide on the top region and also caused liquation and intermetallic (IMCs) formation. Tensile strength and hardness increased as per the Hall-Petch (fine grains) effect. Higher impact energy was found at moderate rotational and low transverse speeds due to the presence of more soft Al patches. Tensile fractographs showed a river-like pattern, which indicated the brittle nature of the joints. High rotational and high transverse speed illustrated higher tensile strength, while better corrosion resistance was observed in high rotational and low transverse speed.