Simplification Possibilities for Estimation of Fsw Process Efficiency by Fea

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a relatively new solid-state joining process. This joining technique is energy efficient, environment friendly, and versatile. In particular, it can be used to join high-strength aerospace aluminium alloys and other metallic alloys that are hard to weld by conventional fusion welding. FSW is considered to be one of the most significant developments in metal joining in past decades. While the bulk of the information is still related to aluminium alloys, important results are also available for other metals and alloys. Among the most important ones are those relating to the process efficiency, which itself can be observed in two ways. One is strictly connected to the process parameters only, and influences heat input; the other one includes parameters like preparation time or necessity for filler material or post-weld heat treatment. Both are important from scientific and engineering point of view, influencing time and costs. This paper presents FEM simulation possibilities for estimation of process efficiency regarding heat input only. Modelling approach and model are explained, accompanied with comparison with experimentally achieved results.