Cold Metal Transfer Welding of AA6061 to AA7075: Mechanical Properties and Corrosion

Abstract

Cold metal transfer (CMT) welding provides many advantages for welding of dissimilar materials and thin sheets with its superior heat input control mechanism. In this study, AA6061 and AA7075 aluminum alloys were joined with CMT welding. The effect of welding parameters on hardness, tensile strength, and corrosion rate was investigated. The Tafel extrapolation method was carried out to determine the corrosion rates of AA6061 and AA7075 base metals and AA6061–AA7075 joints. Increasing heat input was found to be detrimental for both mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The outcomes showed that CMT welding produces adequate joints of AA6061–AA7075 in terms of mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, favorably with welding parameters that provide low heat input.