Friction Stir Welding of Dissimilar Mg Alloys

Friction Stir Welding (FSW), an innovative type of solid state welding technique invented & developed by The Welding Institute (TWI), can present higher potential for magnesium alloys. Because, it utilizes a non-consumable rotating tool to produce frictional heat and thereby creating plastic deformation at the location of welding. FSW is termed as a novel free manufacturing technique because of its energy efficiency, friendliness to the environment. FSW is also preferred over fusion welding as it avoids the scenarios of poor solidification micro structure in the fusion zone and hot cracking. FSW utilizes a non-consumable rotating tool to produce frictional heat and thereby creating plastic deformation at the location of welding. Thus, even when the material is in the solid state, a joint is formed and the formations of non – toxic fumes are completely avoided. Even though the wider use of Mg alloys requires feasible joining methods, there is still a lack of efficient & effective welding techniques for Magnesium alloys. High quality of welds, cheaper price, ability to weld various types of hard–to–weld metals & non metals is yet another reason for choosing FSW to join Mg alloys.