Arc Fusion Welding of Mg-Al₂Ca-Added Al 5xxx Alloys

Abstract

When casting ECO Al alloys, Mg-Al2Ca is used as a substitute for elemental Mg during the alloying process. Several previous studies have determined the mechanical and metallurgical properties of the ECO Al 5052 alloy. In this study, the weldability of the ECO Al 5052 alloy was determined. Gas metal arc welding was performed, and the resultant mechanical and metallurgical aspects of the welds in ECO Al 5052 alloy and commercial Al 5052 alloy were examined. In comparison to the commercial Al 5052 alloy specimen, the welds produced in the ECO Al 5052 alloy exhibited a very narrow heat-affected zone and were not softened through grain coarsening. Consequently, almost 100% joint efficiencies were observed in ECO Al alloy welds, in comparison to joint efficiencies of only 82% in conventional Al 5052 alloy welds.