ME Seminar- ME599/699 

Date & Location: Wednesday, 10/18/2023 - 1:00 PM- 1:45 PM- Building 63 Room 221 

Title: Friction Stir Welding of HDPE 

Presenter: Filmon Gebrehiwet Surafiel 

Abstract 

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a preferred joining method over adhesive and riveted joining due to its several advantages, including reduced consumable energy, reduced weight, improved joint strength, and versatility for various applications. Friction Stir Welding (FSW) has emerged as a promising technique for joining thermoplastic materials, notably High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), due to its advantages in reduced defects and improved joint strength. In this proposal, I explore the application of a specially designed bobbin tool with a coarser thread pitch of 1.27mm threaded pin for butt welding 5mm thick HDPE carbon black sheets. The selection of welding parameters that will be operated during my experimental work, tool rotational speed (800, 1200, and 1800 rpm), welding speeds (50, 40, and 33 mm/min) three levels as input parameters. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and optimization of friction stir welding of HDPE using a bobbin tool. An in-depth discussion will be had regarding the evaluation of weld quality, joint strength, and macrostructural properties. This research contributes to advancing the understanding of FSW processes for thermoplastic materials, with potential applications in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and the petrochemical sector. 

Bio: Filmon Gebrehiwet Surafiel is a graduate student in the Mechanical Engineering Department at KFUPM. He received his BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering from Arba Minch University of Science and Technology. His research interests include friction stir welding (FSW) of dissimilar materials, polymers, and aluminum.