The present study elucidates the influence of reinforcement particles in friction stir welded aluminium (Al 6063) matrix composites on mechanical properties of the metal matrix composition. Initially composites were successfully fabricated with different weight percentage and combination of reinforcements (graphite (gr), B4C and SiC) through stir casting technique. All sets of composite specimen were welded through solid state joining process of friction stir welding technique, the parameters such as tool rotational speed (800, 1000 and 1200 rpm), welding speed (20 and 40 mm/min) and axial loading (10 and 20 kN) are taken for characterization of fabricated composites. The effects of friction stir welding parameters were examined by mechanical and microstructural characterizations. The composites microstructure and dispersion of particle reinforcements were analysed through optical microscope and also the mechanical properties of yield strength, ultimate strength and elongation were analysed using universal testing machine. The optimized friction stir weld parameters were identified for 20% weight fraction reinforced hybrid composites.

Keywords: Hybrid composites, Particles, Microscope, Hardness, Friction stir welding.