IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering | 2021
Friction stir processing of ZE41 Mg alloy: Optimizing the process parameters
Abstract
Friction stir processing is a novel processing route used to develop fine grained structures. Processing by FSP is influenced by tool rotational speed, tool travel speed, workpiece temperature, tool tilt angle, etc. Processing at optimum parameters is important to avoid defects and to develop grain refined materials by FSP. In the current research work, ZE41 magnesium alloy was processed by FSP to develop fine grained structure. FSP was done at different tool rotational and travel speeds. Decreased grain size and increased hardness was observed for all FSPed samples. However, variations were clearly observed within the measured grain size, hardness and nugget zone width of the FSPed samples. From Taguchi optimization studies using gray relation analysis; optimum set of parameters which yield smaller grain size and higher hardness were identified. From the results, 1400 rpm and 25 mm/min were observed as optimum. The design model presented in the current study helps to select optimized parameters in producing fine grained ZE41 for upcoming energy efficient applications.