Hardness Distribution of Al2050 Parts Fabricated Using Additive Friction Stir Deposition

The solid-state additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) process is a layer-by-layer metal 3D-printing technology. In this study, AFSD is used to fabricate Al-Cu-Li 2050 alloy parts. The hardness values for various regions of the as-deposited built parts are measured, and the results are contrasted with those of the feedstock material. The as-fabricated Al2050 parts are found to have a unique hardness distribution due to the location-specific variations in the processing temperature profile. The XRD results indicate the presence of the secondary phases in the deposited parts, and EDS mapping confirms the formation of detectable alloying particles in the as-deposited Al2050 matrix. The AFSD thermal-mechanical process causes the unique hardness distribution and the reduced microhardness level in the AFSD components, in contrast to those of the feedstock material.

Automated summary

The study uses the solid-state additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) process to fabricate Al-Cu-Li 2050 alloy parts. The hardness distribution of the as-fabricated parts is unique due to the variations in the processing temperature profile. XRD results show the presence of secondary phases, and EDS mapping confirms the formation of alloying particles in the deposited matrix. The AFSD thermal-mechanical process results in a unique hardness distribution and reduced microhardness level in the components compared to the feedstock material.