Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Abstract:
Friction welding is a widely used solid state welding method for joining of similar or dissimilar metals. Friction welding requires rapid rotation of one component at high rpm and the other component is brought into contact at high forging pressure to get upset. Traditionally friction welding is carried out on a dedicated machine because of its adaptability to mass production. In the present work, modifications are made to a medium duty lathe by retrofitting it with a powerful motor for high spindle speeds and the tail stock is modified to apply forging pressure. The mechanical properties obtained at different spindle speeds are recorded and hardness at the heat affected zone is measured. The findings proved that a simple engine lathe can perform friction welding up to 12mm diameter. Investigations are carried on mild steel (AISI 1040) and aluminum alloy (AA6351), both as similar and dissimilar combinations.

Keywords: friction welding, retrofitting, breaking strength, dissimilar metals, hardness

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