Research on the Microstructures and Properties of AA5052 Laser-Welded Joints with the ER4043 Filler Wire

Researches were conducted on the laser welding of 3 mm sheet-thickness lap joints of AA5052 with ER4043 filler wires. The effects of laser power on the joint morphology, microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance were investigated. The results indicate that both increased heat input and the addition of filler wires make the molten pool more instable, which results in more process pores. Circular pores are observed in the upper part of the weld, while chain-like pores are distributed in the middle of the weld. The highest tensile strength of the weld joint is 192.61 MPa with an elongation of 10.1% at a laser power of 3.5 kW. The microhardness at the center of the weld is approximately 25% higher than the base material, which is probably because the addition of ER4043 filler wires brings more Si element to the weld. Moreover, the weld joints display superior corrosion resistance compared to the base material. These outcomes enhance the understanding of AA5052 laser welding with fillers wire and provide valuable in-sights for engineering applications.