Effect of Process Parameters on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of RFSSW Lap Joints of Thin Al7075-T6 Sheets

Refill friction stir spot welding (RFSSW) is a new technique of metal structures joining. Within the framework of activities of PZL Mielec in R&D area (program Innolot) researches are realized which aim is to develop the RFSSW technology as a method of joining thin aluminum elements used in aircrafts constructions. The paper presents results of investigations on the RFSSW lap joints welded using rotations in the range from 1500 to 2000 rpm and tool sleeve plunge depth from 1.6 to 1.8 mm. Thin aluminum sheets of thickness 0.8 and 1.6 mm coated with alclad or anodized were welded. Results of the investigations prove that the most common cause of specimens breaking was presence of geometrical defect – the so called hook and weak bonding between parent material and working area of internal sleeve of RFSSW tool. The best tensile strength was reached in case of joint welded at rotational speed 2000 rpm and tool plunge depth 1.6 mm and 1.7 mm (5.37 kN and 5.87 kN adequately). These joints were characterized by very fine and uniform microstructure in the area between sleeve stirred zone and parent material.