Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum Matrix Composites : Processes and Tools
Rungwasun Kraiklang Jariyaporn Onwong * Charuayporn Santhaweesuk and Worapot Sirirak
Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ubon Ratchathani University.

Abstract

Aluminum Matrix Composites (AMCs) are a high strength to weight ratio materials, thus, they are widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries. The processing of AMCs by Friction Stir Welding (FSW) diminishes chemical reaction between an aluminum matrix and reinforced materials which are sources of porosity, casting defects, and undesired phases in weld line. FSW also provides refine microstructure and improves the mechanical and physical properties of products with environmental friendliness. This paper reviews 15 years backward, 32 references associated with the state of art of FSW of AMCs materials. Review topics include tool material selections, tool geometry, tool wear and parameters affected the weld quality. This paper provides the guidelines for improving the limitation of severe tool wear rate due to the presence of reinforcement materials in aluminum matrices which affect the weld quality and production costs. The development knowledge can also be applied to the rail transit systems which are the need issues of the country.

Keywords : Aluminum matrix composite, Friction stir welding, Tool wear