A Two-Model Simplified Approach for Calculation of FSSW

Abstract

The main goal of the present work is to obtain a computational tool for the shipbuilding industry to estimate the main parameters of the FSSW process, by means of a two phase approach using the Finite Volume Method and the Finite Element Method on a two dimensional domain with symmetry of revolution. Experimental weldments were done on two 3mm thick overlapping plates of AA6082 Aluminum alloy. Upon comparison between numerical and experimental results, the contact conditions were well chosen and the maximum temperatures of 423°C were close to those reported in literature. Nevertheless, the experimental measurements were affected by the position of the thermocouples, into the backing steel plate, resulting in lower maxima of 302°C. Circumferential velocity fields and their high gradients zones were coincident with the mixing zone, revealed in the metallurgical attack. The technique was considered successful despite its simplifications.

Key-words:
Friction stir spot welding; Finite volume method; Finite elements method; Symmetry of revolution