Metallographic structure, mechanical properties, and process parameter optimization of 5A06 joints formed by ultrasonic-assisted refill friction stir spot welding

Novel hybrid refill friction stir spot welding (RFSSW) assisted with ultrasonic oscillation was introduced to 5A06 aluminum alloy joints. The metallographic structure and mechanical properties of 5A06 aluminum alloy RFSSW joints formed without ultrasonic assistance and with lateral and longitudinal ultrasonic assistance were compared, and the ultrasonic-assisted RFSSW process parameters were optimized. The results show that compared with lateral ultrasonic oscillation, longitudinal ultrasonic oscillation strengthens the horizontal bonding ligament in the joint and has a stronger effect on the joint's shear strength. By contrast, lateral ultrasonic oscillation strengthens the vertical bonding ligament and is more effective in increasing the joint's tensile strength. The maximum shear strength of ultrasonic-assisted RFSSW 5A06 aluminum alloy joints is as high as 8761 N, and the maximum tensile strength is 3679 N when the joints are formed at a tool rotating speed of 2000 r/min, a welding time of 3.5 s, a penetration depth of 0.2 mm, and an axial pressure of 11 kN.