Influence of FSP on the microstructure, microhardness, intergranular corrosion susceptibility and wear resistance of AA5083 alloy

Abstract

This article investigates the role of friction stir processing (FSP) process parameters on the evolution of microstructure, hardness, intergranular corrosion resistance and wear resistance of aluminium alloy AA5083. The FSP trials are performed by changing the process parameters as per face-centered central composite design. The friction stir processed (FSPed) specimens subjected to intergranular corrosion test and wear test are characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Outcomes suggest that grain refinement, dispersion and partial dissolution of secondary phase has simultaneously increased the hardness, intergranular corrosion resistance and wear resistance of the FSPed specimens. The study found that tool rotation speed of 700 rpm, tool traverse speed of 60 mm min−1 and shoulder diameter of 15 mm results in maximum hardness, wear resistance and intergranular corrosion resistance.