Microstructure of Al-Mg-Si Weld Joints Produced by Pulse TIG Welding

Al-Mg-Si alloys (6000 series) are heat-treatable aluminum alloys and are extensively used in various sectors such as aerospace, automobiles, and general construction. Fabrication of these alloys often requires welding. Pulse TIG offers many advantages over conventional TIG welding as far as control of microstructure is concerned. This research investigated the effect of pulsed TIG welding parameters such as pulse duration, peak current, pulse frequency on the microstructure of heat-affected zone, and fusion line and weld metal of Al-0.5%Mg-0.5%Si weld joints. It was observed that a significant change in microstructure takes place in moving from the base metal to weld centerline. Dissolution of phases present along the grain boundary occurs as the fusion line is approached. Grain structure of heat-affected zone, fusion line, and weld metal appears to have tangible relationship with pulse parameters.