Microstructural Investigations on ATIG and FBTIG Welding of AA 2219 T87 Aluminum Alloy

Limitation in penetration depth is a concern in conventional TIG welding process. To improve penetration capability of TIG process, both Activated TIG (ATIG) and Flux Bounded TIG (FBTIG) are investigated in aluminum alloy AA 2219 T87. Undesirable arc wandering and cracking tendency are observed in ATIG welds. Microstructural investigation reveals ATIG welds are prone for liquation cracks. Morphology of the cracks along with the attributable factors are explained with optical and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) micrographs. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) results are also presented to explain the solute enrichment in the grain boundaries of the ATIG welds. FBTIG is found to produce good quality welds and is more suitable for welding aluminum alloys.