FRICTION STIR WELDING ON DISSIMILAR ALLOYS - A CRITICAL REVIEW

This paper aims at studying Friction Stir Welding (FSW) which is a new technique in welding invented in 1991 by The Welding Institute (TWI). The process uses a rotating tool, which is non consumable to produce frictional heat as well as plastic deformation at the welding area. This method is used in high strength aluminium alloy aerospace components and high temperature alloy metals which are hard to join by traditional fusion welding method. This paper addresses the current status of friction stir welding. The working principle of this process, microstructure characterization, welding parameters, mechanical properties and application area of FSW for improved welding is discussed