Effects of friction stir welding on microstructure of 7075 aluminum

Friction stir welding is a relatively new technique developed by The Welding Institute (TWI) for the joining of aluminum alloys. The technique, based on friction heating at the faying surfaces of two pieces to be joined, results in a joint created by interface deformation, heat, and solid-state diffusion. In evaluating friction stir welding, critical issues (beyond a sound joint) include microstructure control and localized mechanical property variations. A serious problem with fusion welding, even when a sound weld can be made, is the complete alteration of microstructure and the attendant loss of mechanical properties. Being a solid-state process, friction stir welding has the potential to avoid significant changes in microstructure and mechanical properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microstructural changes effected by friction stir welding of 7075 Al.