A Technical Review on Friction Stir Spot Welding of Steels for Automotive Applications

Abstract

Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) is a novel method of friction stir welding which has prevailed in the current market especially for joining of non-ferrous metals like aluminium, copper, magnesium, etc. with similar and dissimilar metal welds possible. It is done by using a cylindrical rotating tool with pin on the plates to be welded at high speed rotation. The friction between the tool and workpiece causes the welding of plates. This method has extensive advantages compared to other spot-welding processes. But the use of this method for joining of various types of steel is just coming into picture for aerospace and automotive applications. Different types of tool materials to be used depend upon the type and thickness of the material to be welded This study aims to identify the applications of this process for similar as well as dissimilar joints of various grades of steel (H-13, St37, TRIP 780/800 steel, 304 tempered steel, DP 980 steel). It also emphasizes on the parameters which affect the welding of steels by this process.