Failure Loads and Deformation in 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy Spot Welds

Florea, R. S., Solanki, K.N., Bammann, D., Jordon, J. B., & Castanier, M. (2011). Failure Loads and Deformation in 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy Spot Welds. 2011 TMS Annual Meeting & Exposition. San Diego, California: TMS 2011.

Abstract

Failure loads and deformation in 6061-T6 aluminum alloy resistance spot welded joints were experimentally investigated. The welding experiments were carried out using different process parameters such as electrode forces, welding times, and currents. Nugget and microstructure characteristics were quantified using laser beam profilometry, electron back scatter diffraction technique (EBSD), and quasi-static shear tests. Mechanical tests were used to characterize the failure forces in spot welded specimens to elucidate the influence of process parameters. Finally, the microstructure of the weld nugget was discussed based on the process parameters, and the modeling results were compared with measurements obtained by electron back scatter diffraction mapping.