Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation on Friction Stir Welding of TiB₂ Reinforcement Aluminum Matrix Composite

In-situ self-generated TiB₂/7050 composite material is a new engineering material with light weight and high strength. Friction stir welding（FSW） is an important connection method to solve its welding problem, which is expected to be applied in many industrial fields. Studying the FSW temperature field change can optimize the process and improve the quality of the welding joints. The numerical simulation approach was used to predict the effects of FSW welding parameters on the temperature field of in-situ TiB₂/7050 composite. The optimal welding process parameters were determined by combining with the actual welding test results. The results show that when the tool rotation speed is 800 r/min and the welding speed is 250 mm/min, the heat input in the welding zone is moderate, the plastic flow of the weld metal is sufficient, the joint appearance is good. The numerical results and corresponding experimental investigation are in agreement. TiB₂ particulates distribution in the weld nugget zone is uniform.