Evaluation of interface microstructure for friction stir welded aluminium-stainless steel plate

Abstract

In the present study, commercially pure aluminium has been joined with 304 stainless steel by friction stir welding. Microstructural characterization was carried out using scanning and transmission electron microscopes. Diffusion of Fe, Cr and Ni is substantial within Al; however diffusion of Al within 304SS is limited. Owing to inter-diffusion of chemical species across the bond line, discrete islands of Fe3Al intermetallic phase forms within the reaction zone. The rubbing action of tool over the butting edge of 304SS removed fine particles of 304SS and got embedded in the stirring zone of Al matrix. At the latter stage austenite underwent phase transformation to ferrite due to large strain within its grain. Fracture path mainly moves through stirring zone of Al alloy under tensile loading; however in some places, presence of Fe3Al compound has been found.