Optimizing Friction Stir Welding Parameters for AA6061 and AA7075 Aluminum Alloys: A Combined Taguchi and Gray Relational Analysis Approach

Authors

  • Panuwat Thosa Department of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Industrial Technology,Nakhon Phanom University, Thailand
  • Kiattipong Onbut Department of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Industrial Technology,Nakhon Phanom University, Thailand
  • Jessada Hongnee Faculty of Industrial Technology,Nakhon Phanom University, Thailand
  • Thanatep Phatungthane Division of Science, Faculty of Education, Nakhon Phanom University, Nakhon Phanom 48000, Thailand
  • Somchat Sonasang Department of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Industrial Technology,Nakhon Phanom University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24425/mper.2025.157207

Abstract

This study optimizes the Friction Stir Welding (FSW) process for aluminum alloys AA6061 and AA7075, crucial for the automotive and shipbuilding industries. The Taguchi method combined with Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) was employed to determine optimal process parameters: rotational speed, travel speed, and pin depth in the Z-axis. Experiments revealed that a rotational speed of 1000 RPM, travel speed of 20 mm/min, and pin depth of 0.16 mm achieved the highest tensile strength (166.68 MPa) and hardness (97.86 HV). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) confirmed the significant impact of rotational speed on mechanical properties. The study demonstrates the efficacy of combining Taguchi and GRA methods for FSW optimization, providing a framework for improving material performance in lightweight, highstrength applications. Future research should explore broader material scopes, advanced control systems, and environmental impacts.

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Published

2025-12-30

How to Cite

Thosa, Panuwat, et al. “Optimizing Friction Stir Welding Parameters for AA6061 and AA7075 Aluminum Alloys: A Combined Taguchi and Gray Relational Analysis Approach”. Management and Production Engineering Review, vol. 16, no. 4, Dec. 2025, pp. [nr art. 1], s. 1-13, doi:10.24425/mper.2025.157207.

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