Influence of welding speed and tool rotational speed on the mechanical properties of 5052 aluminum alloy friction stir welds

This study investigates the influence of welding speed and tool rotational speed on the mechanical characteristics of friction stir welds (FSW) on 5052 aluminum alloy, aiming to enhance the mechanical properties of the welds. Experiments were conducted with varying parameters, including welding speeds (from 23 to 78 mm/min) and tool rotational speeds (from 750 to 1800 rpm). The results indicate that variations in these two parameters affect the tensile strength of the welds. The optimal weld quality was achieved with a moderate rotational speed (approximately 1500 rpm) combined with a moderate welding speed (approximately 57 mm/min), resulting in a tensile strength reaching 81% of the base material. These experimental results provide a basis for selecting optimal technological parameters in the FSW process of 5052 aluminum alloy sheets for applications in the mechanical, marine, and automotive industries.