Effect of Post Weld Heat Treatment on Strength and Microstructure of Friction Stir Welded Lap Joints of AA2014-T6 Aluminum Alloy

Abstract

Lap joints of AA2014 aluminum alloy produced by friction stir welding and subjected to post weld heat treatment have been studied. The shear strength and hardness of the welded joints were determined. The structure of the weld and weld-affected zone was studied. A fractographic analysis of the fracture surface of the tested samples was performed. The post weld heat treatment modes were established to enable recovery of the mechanical properties of the welded joints.