Investigating the process - microstructure - mechanical property development in Ti-6AL-4V friction stir welds

Baker, Sarah (2015). Investigating the process - microstructure - mechanical property development in Ti-6AL-4V friction stir welds. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The aim of the work reported in this thesis is to develop friction stir welding for superplastic titanium alloys. A number of studies have shown that friction stir welding is capable of retaining the fine-grained superplastic microstructure of the base metal and so there has been much commercial interest in combining it with superplastic forming processes.

Within this programme friction stir welding was performed with a variety of process parameters and in both the conventional and stationary shoulder configuration. This meant that a number of welds were created with various rates of heat input. The elevated temperature and intense plastic deformation associated with the friction stir welding process substantially alters the base metal microstructure. As a result the influence of the process parameters on the microstructure, texture and residual stress development has been identified within this investigation. Tool wear and deformation also remains a hindrance in the commercialisation of friction stir welding titanium alloys. Wear and deformation of the tool not only changes its shape, but it can have further implications on the structural integrity of the weld. Thus the influence of the process parameters on wear and deformation of the tool have also been identified.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):