A Study of FSW Process Parameters Effects on Mechanical Properties of PP Composites

In this paper, effects of friction stir welding process parameters on tensile strength and hardness of polypropylene composite welds with 30% glass fiber were studied. Plates of 5mm thickness were butt welded under different conditions of tool rotational speeds (400,630 and 1000 rpm), linear speeds (8, 16 and 20 mm/min) and tilt angles (0, 1 and 2 degrees). Standard tensile and Rockwell hardness tests were carried out to determine tensile strength and hardness of the welded joints. It was observed that the specimen welded at the rotational speed of 630 rpm and tilt angle of 2 degrees showed the maximum tensile strength and hardness whereas linear speeds of 8 and 16 mm/min. caused maximum tensile strength and hardness respectively.