Experimental investigations of heat generation and microstructure evolution during friction stir processing of SnSbCu alloy

Abstract The paper presents the results of experimental investigations heat generation and microstructure evolution during friction stir processing (FSP) SnSb11Cu6 alloy. Triflute tool was used for modification; process carried out using two rotational speeds tool: 280 560 RPM a constant linear speed 355 mm/min. Microstructure studies were performed employing techniques light microscopy scanning electron along with analysis chemical composition micro-areas. Additionally, phase investigated by means X-ray diffraction method, backscatter (EBSD) hardness testing before after FSP modification. Furthermore, measurements temperature directly on modified surface thermal imaging camera in zone thermocouple system performed. It proved that to modify SnSbCu alloy promotes refinement homogenization microstructure, as well improvement hardness. starting material 24 HB, FSP, increased amounted to, respectively, 25 27 HB at RPM. is formed dynamic recrystallization (DRX) consists almost equiaxed tin-rich matrix grains size approx. 5–30 µm fine particles Cu 6 Sn 5 SnSb phases. distribution not uniform changes gradient manner.