Effect of post processing heat treatment on friction stir welded/processed aluminum based alloys and composites

Friction stir welding and processing are widely used for joining of aluminum alloys and composites and fabrication of aluminum matrix composites. However, the friction stirred plates possess different microstructural zones which create significant difference in local properties and heat treatment is required to establish uniformity. In this article, the state-of-the-art of heat treatment on FSWed/FSPed aluminum alloys is discussed. The effects of heat treatment time and temperature on microstructural appearances and mechanical properties are examined thoroughly. Special attention is provided on the change in the state of precipitates by different heat treatment processes. Also, the effects of different heat treatment techniques are compared. Finally, some ideas regarding direction of new research related to current topic are addressed. (c) 2021

Automated summary

This article discusses the latest advances in heat treatment of FSWed/FSPed aluminum alloys, including the effects of heat treatment time and temperature on microstructural appearances and mechanical properties, as well as the comparison of effects of different heat treatment techniques. Special attention is given to the change in the state of precipitates during heat treatment processes.