Microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminum alloys AA5754 and AA6013 joined by GMAW (Gas metal arc welding) method

Abstract

The use of aluminum alloys in industry have been increased in due to their excellent low weight, corrosion resistance also other good features. Different aluminum alloys are joined with together when need of a structure presents different physical or mechanical properties with together. in this study, different aluminum alloys AA5754 and AA6013 joined by GMAW (gas metal arc welding) method under different welding parameters. After that, three-point bending test was carried out and notch impact test was performed to determine toughness behavior of the joints. in addition, the weld zone is characterized with hardness test and microstructure studies. While the welded samples joined with convenient parameters were bended 180 degrees, the cracks and fractures were occurred on the fusion line boundary of some samples due to unsuitable parameters. According to impact toughness test results, the highest toughness value was obtained from the HAZ (Heat affected zone) of AA5754. Besides, toughness values evaluated from the HAZ of AA6013 on the joints and weld metal were nearly same. With respect to hardness test results, the maximum hardness value was measured at the HAZ of AA6013 and this was followed by the weld metal and the HAZ of AA5754 sequentially. From the point of microstructure inspections, structures of all the weld metals were dendritic.