A review on friction stir welding for aluminium alloys

Friction stir welding is a solid state welding process which involves joining similar or dissimilar metals using a rotating tool. Tool geometry and traverse speed and rotating speed of motion of the tool, tool axial force and tilt angle are some of the variables in this process. Many materials like Aluminium alloy 2000, 6000 and 7000 series have been joined using this technique. Mechanical characterization, similar and dissimilar combinations, micro structural characterization and the Influences of tool pin profiles for FSW processes are some of the important areas of research. This paper reviews the work done in the above mentioned areas and concludes by suggesting further scope for research in friction stir welding.