No abstract

Friction Stir welding of 3.175 mm (0.125 in.) thick plates of AZ31-H24 magnesium alloy was performed using several travel velocities and tool-rotation speeds. After production the welds were cross-sectioned and a metallurgical characterization was performed using optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Assessment of the weld nugget or ''stirred zone'' shows evidence of dynamic recrystallization and the start of grain growth in some spots of this region compared to the parent metal. Recrystallization was identified in the thermomechanically affected zone (TAZ) as well. The mechanical properties of the weld are correlated with the corresponding microstructures present in the weld nugget and TMAZ. Corrosion resistance of the weld was assessed using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) techniques and immersion tests in a corrosive environment; it showed better corrosion resistance than the base metal.

No abstract

3D-printing technologies have greatly influenced the field of fabrication of medical devices. In particular, Fused Deposition Modeling 3D printing has emerged as one the most popular and most promising technologies for fabricating upper-limb prostheses. Over the last years, a variety of types and designs of 3D-printed hand prostheses have been created and are commercially available. However, there are no standards or established procedures for testing these devices. Available information regarding their long-term performance and functionality is very limited. This paper presents a case study of mechanical testing methods applied to a specific design of an upper-limb prosthesis. The device and its subassemblies were subjected to flexion test in hyperextension and abduction conditions, fatigue/wear test, and tensile test. The experimental results are presented and examined. Testing procedures, adaptations and recommendations are described and discussed to demonstrate ways of generating reliable data that serve for comparison among different hand prostheses designs.