Multi response optimisation of FSW while using dissimilar aluminium alloys

Abstract

In recent times, focus has been on developing fast and efficient processes that are environment friendly. The spotlight has been turned on 'friction stir welding' as a joining technology, capable of providing welds that do not have defects normally associated with fusion welding processes. From the available literature, it has been observed that the effect of welding parameters on desired characteristics was determined by taking into consideration one parameter at a time or by using conventional methods. So without ignoring the limitations of earlier researches, the main focus in this study has been kept on welding of dissimilar aluminium alloys (AA6061 and AA5086) by using design of experiments which is quite rarely used multi-factor at a time technique. Tensile strength and hardness were identified as key mechanical properties and were optimised upto 0.156 KN/mm2 and 73.19 HVN respectively. The fractional factorial design has been used to achieve required optimisation by using software 'Minitab-16'.