Impact of process parameters on transitions in the microstructural characteristics and mechanical attributes of Ti–6Al–4V alloy joints during FSW

Abstract Transformations in microstructural characteristics and mechanical attributes of friction stir welded 3 mm thick Ti–6Al–4V alloy plates was investigated by employing distinctive tool rotational and traverse speeds. Impact of these parameters on microstructural transitions, generation of flaws, hardness, and tensile properties of the joints were analyzed. Increase in rotational speed from 1200 rpm to 1600 rpm have contributed for escalation in temperature, even above the β transus temperature. Large sized lamellar alpha grains was found to be transformed into finely refined lamellar alpha + altered beta grains in uppermost portion of nugget zone of joints fabricated at 1600 rpm and 50 mm/min combinations. This transformation have occurred due to the impact of the thermal cycles and stirring mechanism. These joints were found to be free from flaws including volumetric related defects, kissing bond, tunnel flaws. Majority of the fabricated joints possessed lowest value of mechanical properties in their heat affected zone and exhibited fracture in this zone. Properties of Ti–6Al–4V alloy joints were evaluated with respect to pseudo index of heat and it was observed that rotational speed of the tool is a dominant parameter in impacting both the mechanical attributes and microstructural transformations of the joints.