Publication

Abstract : This study focused on the influence of a dual eccentric-pin tool (DEPT) on microstructure, mechanical, and tribological characteristics during the friction stir processing (FSP) of AA6061 aluminum alloy reinforced with Metco 204ns particles. Results revealed that the use of DEPT progressively improved the homogeneity and fragmentation of reinforcement particles within the stir zone, while substantially reducing the mean grain size of the stirred zone from 9.56 μm to 5.78 μm. The findings also demonstrated that the use of DEPT significantly enhanced both the metallurgical and mechanical characteristics. The shear strength increased from 153 MPa to 189 MPa, while the wear rate noticeably decreased from 0.48 to 0.37 mm3/N·m. The observed improvement stems from a more homogeneous and efficient distribution of Metco 204NS particles throughout the matrix.