The Effect of Process Parameters on the Microstructure and Mechanical Performance of Fiber Laser-Welded AA5182 Aluminium Alloys

The laser welding of aluminium alloys is an important industrial technology but many challenges remain. The objective of this research is to investigate the effect of laser welding parameters on the quality of the fiber laser lap welded AA5182 aluminium alloy. The influences of the laser power, welding speed and focal point position on the mechanical and microhardness properties of the joints were experimentally investigated. The mechanical properties of the joints were evaluated by performing tensile tests. From the experimental results, optimum process parameters were determined, and microstructural examination and microhardness tests were conducted to better understand the performance of the joints. It was found that there is a correlation between the tensile shear loads of the joints and heat input per unit length. At the optimized parameters, the welded joint showed good weld appearance without macro defects, and the joint had an adequate tensile shear load.