Comparing mechanical behaviour of aluminium welds produced by laser beam welding (LBW), friction stir welding (FSW), and riveting for aeronautical structures

^*Selected from Soldagem & Inspeção 2014 19(2) 145–151.

Abstract

Three welding processes for aluminium parts have been considered for aircraft fabrication: riveting, friction stir welding (FSW) and laser beam welding (LBW). These processes have advantages and threats, which were analysed in the present work focusing on T-pull and Hoop tensile properties. Concerning T-pull tests, LBW coupons presented higher ability to withstand the applied loads. This was due to the better distribution of loads when the strain is done in the stringer direction. In the case of the Hoop tests, which stress only the skin, the results obtained after FSW were notably higher in terms of ultimate tensile stress, yield stress and maximum strain. It was concluded that both LBW and FSW could replace riveting usually applied for commercial aircraft manufacturing.

Keywords:

• Laser beam welding (LBW)
• friction stir welding (FSW)
• riveting

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the company Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica for donating the study material, FINEP for financing the laser and CAPES for the doctorate study grant.

Notes

^* Selected from Soldagem & Inspeção 2014 19(2) 145–151.