Journal of Computational & Applied Research in Mechanical Engineering (JCARME)

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

¹ Program in Production Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Songkhla and Materials Processing Technology Research Unit, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya

² Program in Production Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya

³ Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Prince of Songkla

https://doi.org/10.22061/jcarme.2026.12648.2745

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of tool rotational speed and traverse speed on the microstructural development and mechanical characteristics of friction stir welded (FSW) AA6082-T6 aluminum alloy joints. Welding was performed at rotational speeds of 710, 1000, and 1400 rpm and traverse rates of 14, 28, and 56 mm/min to elucidate the correlation between process parameters, relative heat input, and joint performance. The macrostructural analysis verified the presence of robust weld production devoid of macroscopic flaws across all parameter combinations. Optical microscopy demonstrated polished equiaxed grains in the stir zone, indicative of deformation-induced recrystallization during solid-state processing, while the redistribution of Mg2Si and Al6Mn containing phases facilitated microstructural homogenization. Mechanical tests indicated that hardness and tensile strength typically rose with higher rotational and traverse rates, reaching peak values of 73.77 HV and 111.77 MPa at 1400 rpm and 56 mm/min, respectively. Impact toughness attained a peak value of 13.00 Nm at 1000 rpm and 14 mm/min, where modest heat input and strain rate facilitated a more ductile fracture behavior. The results suggest that joint behavior is determined by the equilibrium between temperature exposure and plastic deformation, rather than by a singular predominant factor. A balance between strength and impact toughness was achieved within the current parameter range of 1000–1400 rpm and 14–56 mm/min, offering practical guidelines for the optimization of AA6082-T6 friction stir welds.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

Main Subjects

Welding

References

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Journal of Computational & Applied Research in Mechanical Engineering (JCARME)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 22 February 2026

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