Thixo-joining of D2 and M2 tool steels: analysis of microstructure and mechanical properties

Abstract

Thixo-joining as a method of joining dissimilar materials was introduced recently. In this method, specimens in a semi-solid condition are brought into contact with each other under compression. As a result, diffusion bonding takes place between the specimens. In this research, two kinds of tool steels, AISI D2 and AISI M2, which are difficult to join using conventional methods, were joined together through the thixo-joining process. While specimens were being heated in a furnace with argon-controlled atmosphere through the direct partial remelting method, a uniaxial constant compressive load was applied to them. The Microstructure and mechanical properties of the joint were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, shear, and hardness tests. The results showed a joint with good quality regarding the microstructure and mechanical properties. Moreover, energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed the diffusion of elements during the joining process. The fracture surface of the joint was also analyzed and characterized as intergranular.

Characterization of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Resistance Spot Welded DP600 Steel

“…This would be necessary to study the effect of developed microstructures during welding on the final mechanical properties of the material [32,33]. Additionally, this map would be useful for evaluating the micromechanical properties of the material [32]. Surface hardness map of the welded structure is depicted in Figure 9.…”

Trend and Development of Semisolid Metal Joining Processing

“…Similarly, Kalaki et al [41,42] have also carried out more effort on thixojoining with the aim to provide globular joining structure in semisolid state by employing AISI D2 and M2 tool steels via applying an approximately 1 MPa constant compressive stress at nil strength temperature of D2 and direct partial remelting in furnace with argon controlled atmosphere. Experimental results showed that the alloy with low solidus temperature in the semisolid overlap zone is highly affected by temperature experiment.…”

“…In addition, this joining process allows surface-tosurface joining rather than the line-to-line joining of conventional welding. Therefore, it prevents corrosion at the interface of the components and confers Tool steel [14] Stainless steel Aluminum alloy [15] Aluminum alloy, cast iron, or stainless steel Particles, balls, short fibers of metallic or nonmetallic materials, such as ceramic, glass, tile, or stone, aluminum alloy, copper alloy, or stainless steel [5,12,17,18] Stainless steel M2 tool steel [20] X210CrW12, 100Cr6, and X5CrNil18-10 9SMn28, CuCo2Be, CuSn12, and GBZ12 [13,21] Sn-15 wt%Pb Sn-15 wt%Pb Sn-5 wt%Pb [10] Pb-15 wt%Sn Pb-15 wt%Sn [25] Zinc AG40A die cast alloy Zinc AG40A die cast alloy [26] A356 A356 [27] SiCP/A356 composites 2024 aluminum alloy Zn-Al [29] SiCP/A356 composites SiCP/A356 composites Zn-Al [43] AZ91 alloy AZ91 alloy Mg-25 wt%Zn [33] A356 aluminum alloy A356 aluminum alloy [34] D2 tool steel D2 tool steel [39] D2 tool steel 304 stainless steel [40] D2 tool steel M2 tool steel [42] a better shape than welding. Furthermore, SSMJ can be used to embed metallic or ceramic materials for use in reinforcement or as bearing systems [12].…”

“…(4) Some welding problems such as an inhomogeneous weld microstructure, sputtering, and high process temperature have been solved and satisfactory mechanical properties have been gained when certain alloys have been joined in a semisolid state [10,42].…”

The Effect of Vibration during Friction Stir Welding on Corrosion Behavior, Mechanical Properties, and Machining Characteristics of Stir Zone

“…FSW has a great applicability for joining of dissimilar materials especially those with a high difference in melting point and thermal expansion-contraction coefficient. Consideration of different requirements for the joining of dissimilar metals has encouraged the researchers and industries to apply friction techniques, such as friction welding, FSW, friction drilling, and form tapping [9][10][11].…”