Control factor optimization for friction stir processing of AA8090/SiC surface composites

Friction Stir Processing is a state-of-the-art technology for microstructure refinement, material property enhancement, and surface composites fabrication. This investigation concentrates on AA8090/SiC surface composites produced via friction stir processing. Experiments were conducted by varying the following friction stir processing parameters: Tool rotational speed (800–1400 rpm), Tool traverse speed (25–75 mm/min), and Groove width (1.0–1.8 mm). Response measures encompassed Ultimate Tensile Strength and surface roughness. Central Composite Design of Response Surface Methodology designed the experiments and mathematical relationships established between input parameters and ultimate tensile strength and surface roughness. Analysis of variance was used to test the model's adequacy. The models examined individual and interaction effects of input factors on ultimate tensile strength and surface roughness of surface composites. A combinations of input parameters was identified that yields the maximum ultimate tensile strength and minimum surface roughness. The current work employs the friction stir processing approach to synthesis near-net-shaped surface composites without additional machining by systematically optimizing process parameters. Results indicate that increasing tool rotational speed produces well-finished AA8090/SiC surface composites with decreased strength. In contrast, increased tool traverse speed and groove width generate surface composites with rougher surfaces and higher strength. Surface and contour plots further explored the influence of parameter interactions on responses.