Friction stir spot weld (FSSW) of AZ91 magnesium alloys; effect of axial force and rotational speed on weld quality and an approach on inspection planning.

In this study, the friction stir spot welding (FSSW) process for the magnesium alloy (AZ91) sheet materials are investigated. Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) is a solidstate welding process and one of the innovative methods to join specifically automotive components. Recently magnesium alloys are promising materials where combination of high strength and low density can be observed to improve vehicle performance and reduce emissions and fuel consumption in structural materials for automotive applications. A finite element model (FEM) established to understand the effect of axial force and rotational speed during the simulation in automotive applications. The FEM investigates the effect of axial force ranging from 1 kN to 8 kN and rotational speeds of 1000 rpm - 4000 rpm. The model analyses the heat flux and the temperature rise that leads defect formation after the process. 4.5 kN, 6 kN and 8 kN axial forces and 3000 rpm- 4000 rpm rotational speeds are evaluated as the critical values in terms of defect and crack formation during the process under specified boundary conditions. Finally, several non-destructive inspection methods are suggested to secure structural integrity after the FSSW process to eliminate the harmful effects of surface and volumetric discontinuities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]