Characteristic Study of Mechanical Properties...

Characteristic Study of Mechanical Properties Induced By Friction STIR Welding (FWS) of Polymers

Author Name : K. Ravi Teja, Dr. R.J.V. Anil Kumar

ABSTRACT

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state joining procedure that involves attaching two facing workpieces using a non-consumable tool without melting the workpiece material. Friction between the revolving tool and the workpiece material generates heat, resulting in a softened zone near the FSW tool. While traversing along the joint line, the tool mechanically intermixes the two pieces of metal and forges the hot and softened metal using the tool's mechanical pressure. In industrial, it's mostly utilized to combine aluminum alloys of all grades, whether cast, rolled, or extruded. FSW has been employed in a range of industries, from aerospace to shipbuilding and rail to electronics, including electric vehicle battery trays. A thermosetting polymer, resin, or plastic, often known as a thermoset, is a polymer that cures a soft solid or viscous liquid resin to become permanently hardened. Carbon fiber reinforced polymer is a fiber-reinforced plastic that comprises carbon fibers and is highly strong and light. CFRPs are commonly utilized in applications that need a high strength-to-weight ratio and stiffness (rigidity), such as aerospace, ship superstructures, automotive, civil engineering, and sports equipment. The production of CFRPs can be costly and exposing these materials to high temperatures frequently results in the formation of cracks and surface flaws. In the event of wear and tear, replacement is required. As a result, in an emergency, friction stir welding can be utilized to repair the components that can be mended. Certain characteristics that completely influence weld strength and material compositions are considered in this study, and a study on the key elements that contribute to the change in mechanical properties after weld of CFRPs is proposed. The depth of cut, feed, pin shape, tool pin material, composition, tool pin angle, and fixture location are all contributing parameters. Mechanical parameters such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, surface roughness, hardness, and microstructure are studied and reported after CFRPs are welded. The best conditions for welding CFRPs are discovered.

Keywords: Friction stir welding,carbon fiber,polymers, Mechanical test methods