Friction stir welding process effects on human health and mechanical properties

Abstract

Fabricating different parts and products are very vital for manufacturing units involving complicated shaped products. Welding is the extensively used concoction methods owing to its diverse application and intrinsic features. Manufacturing organisations commonly practice fusion welding (FW) processes leading to deleterious effects on welder's health due to fumes, gases, heat and radiations evolved. Moreover, the by-products of the FW cause environmental pollution. Hence, there is urgent prerequisite for an alternate joining process which offers substantial welder safety and eco-friendliness. Lately, friction stir welding (FSW) has developed as a joining method in which the material does not melt and recast. FSW does not encompass filler materials and other consumables gifting environmental friendliness and welder's safety. Apart from being clean process, FSW also provides improved joint properties in comparison to FW as it overpowers numerous complications causing welding discontinuities and defects. The present research has been done to provide the readers with an insight into the FW and FSW process concerning welder's healthiness and mechanical properties of the joints. Additionally, the role of ergonomics has also been discussed.