Role of interfacial microstructure on mechanical properties of cold metal transfer welded dissimilar A6061-T6 and A6082-T6 joints

Abstract

A6061-T6 and A6082-T6 dissimilar aluminium alloys are welded using CMT (Cold metal transfer) process and the interface microstructure of the individual alloys is correlated with mechanical properties. Microstructures indicate that dendrites next to the PMZ (Partially melted zone) of A6082-T6 side are finer than the dendrites next to the PMZ of A6061-T6 side. Liquation at grain boundaries and within the grains is clearly visible in the PMZ of A6061-T6 interface, whereas the PMZ of A6082-T6 interface does not reveal liquation phenomenon at grain boundaries and grain interiors. Among the interface regions, the A6082-T6 side shows superior mechanical properties as compared to the A6061-T6 side. © 2020 Elsevier B.V.