Utilising friction spot joining for dissimilar joint between aluminium alloy (A5052) and polyethylene terephthalate

Abstract

The weld strength of thermoplastics with aluminium alloy, such as high density polyethylene and polypropylene sheets, is influenced by friction stir welding parameters. This paper focuses on the preliminary investigation of joining parameter at various levels as well as the mechanical properties of friction spot joining (FSJ) of aluminium alloy (A5052) to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). A number of FSJ experiments were carried out to obtain optimum mechanical properties by adjusting the plunge speed and plunge depth in the ranges of 5–40 mm min⁻¹ and 0·4–0·7 mm respectively, while spindle speed remains constant at 3000 rev min⁻¹. The results indicated that A5052 and PET successfully joined with the aid of frictional heat energy originated from the friction spot welding process. The effect of plunge speed on the joined area and the effect of formation of bubbles at the interface of joints on the shear strength of joint are discussed.

Keywords:

• Friction spot joining
• Aluminium alloy
• Thermoplastic
• Dissimilar materials
• Bubble formation

This research was partially supported by the High Impact Grant (grant no. MOHE-HIR-D000001-16001) from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia.