Title: Sustainability of manufacturing technology: friction stir welding in focus

Authors: Sarafadeen Azeez; Esther Akinlabi

Addresses: Faculty of Engineering and The Built Environment, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Johannesburg, South Africa ' Faculty of Engineering and The Built Environment, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract: The sustainability of quality products is the primary concern of today's manufacturing entrepreneurs. The desire to produce cost effective and competitive products by metal forming or welding process has increased spontaneously. The authors examined the sustainability of friction stir welding (FSW) and evaluated weld joints reliability for health, safety, environment and economic purposes. An interplay between welding speed and tool rotational speed led to the formation of viable structures. The welding energy, materials deformation, emissions and life cycle assessment were analysed in line with the mechanical properties. A bivariate Weibull approximation model was used to predict weld joints reliability. A reliable and sustainable joints were obtained when the Weibull modulus increases as heat input reduces. The authors concluded by linking the tensile property of welded joints, heat input and Weibull modulus to the sustainability of FSW. A closed energy system was recommended for this green technology to be worthwhile.

Keywords: environment; fabrication; FSW; friction stir welding; manufacturing; reliability; sustainability; Weibull model.

DOI: 10.1504/PIE.2018.097188

Progress in Industrial Ecology, An International Journal, 2018 Vol.12 No.4, pp.419 - 438

Received: 31 Aug 2017
Accepted: 14 Sep 2018
Published online: 02 Jan 2019 *

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