Mechanical behavior and failure mechanism of resistance spot welded Aluminum and Copper joint used in the lightweight structures

Abstract

Recently, dissimilar metals have found applications in the process of resistance spot welding (RSW), particularly within the electric vehicle industry. Notably, copper and aluminum have gained significant importance in these sectors due to their advantageous characteristics for the industry requirements. The mechanical behavior of these materials is essential to maintaining structural integrity. The study aims to estimate the mechanical behavior of dissimilar RSW joints and optimize welding parameters for Cu-Al joints. Hence, understanding the joining processes in the electric vehicle industry to design reliable components. Combining different types of materials, such as T2-grade commercially pure copper sheets and aluminum AA1050 with the same thickness of 1 mm has been welded. The determination of optimal welding conditions takes into account material thicknesses and types. Through tensile-shear testing, welding parameters that yield maximal joint strength were identified. Using Minitab 19 software, the Taguchi method helped achieve optimized welding parameters. The hardness, fracture characteristics, and weld strength have been investigated. Hardness measurements were conducted across the nugget thickness and surface, offering insights into potential failure modes. The welding process involves the transition to a liquid state for the aluminum components, resulting in the formation of intermetallic compounds. Consequently, crack initiation was observed within the aluminum segments, leading to a plug-out fracture mechanism. In contrast, copper exhibits superior strength and hardness compared to aluminum, where increased hardness correlates with heightened strength. The discrepancy in hardness, especially the lower values observed on the aluminum side, caused fractures to appear within the heat affected zone (HAZ). Subsequently, this fracture propagated until pull-out failure was realized. The study revealed that dissimilar joining of Cu and Al resulted in an ultimate tensile stress of 26 MPa, while similar joining of copper showcased a strength of 98 MPa. Additionally, the symmetric join in aluminum exhibited a strength of 93 MPa. The maximum tensile shear force is equal to 512 N at a maximum welding current of 14000 A. The pull-out failure mode occurs in the Cu-Al RSW joint. The maximum hardness was noted in the fusion zone (FZ). Relevant literature sources have supported and confirmed these outcomes.