Simulation and experimental study on surface modification of 6061‐T651 aluminum alloy by machine hammer peening

Abstract Machine hammer peening is a surface treatment technique employed to enhance the surface properties of the treated samples. In this present work, the theoretical analysis, finite element simulation and experiment of single peening are carried out to investigate the relationship between the machine hammer peening force and geometric dimensions of the single peening indentation deformation, including diameter and depth. The single peening experimental results are in accordance with theoretical and simulation analysis. The machine hammer peening experiment with grate tool path are done and the results including surface topography, surface roughness, surface hardness, x‐ray diffraction analysis and wear resistance are discussed. This work seeks to explore the effects of process parameters like machine hammer peening force, indentation and pitch spacing on surface roughness and hardness. The results reveal that the surface hardness and roughness are positively associated with machine hammer peening force and small indentation and pitch spacing lead to high hardness. The x‐ray diffraction analysis validate machine hammer peening is a mechanical treatment without new compound generated. The friction test results in an enhancement in wear resistance of treated samples.