The Effect of Tool Rotation on Structure and Mechanical Properties in Friction Stir Welding Of Aluminum AA5052

Abstract: Welding of aluminum alloy materials is often used in the industrial world, including those engaged in shipping, aircraft, and others. The welding method used to bind aluminum materials is Friction Stir Welding (FSW). Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a simple welding method, namely by utilizing the heat energy generated from the friction of the shoulder tool with the material being welded. This study aimed to determine the effect of tool rotation on the physical and mechanical properties of Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum AA5052. The material used in this study was aluminum with the series AA5052 as the primary material. The friction stir welding process was carried out using CnC milling with parameters of the tool rotation speed of 1000, 1200, and 1500 rpm and a feed rate of 25 mm/minute. Physical analysis was carried out using macro photo observations with a USB Digital Microscope and microstructural observations with optical metallography. Mechanical observations were carried out using tensile testing and hardness testing. The microstructure in the weld nugget area shows good results with fine and dense grains that occur due to the dynamic recrystallization process. The highest tensile strength is 102.49 MPa in the 1000 rpm parameter. This is due to the material mixing process and good heat transfer.