Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Linear Friction Welded 45 Steel Joint

Linear friction welding (LFW) is an emerging solid-state joining process to extend the current applications of welding. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of LFW 45 steel joint were investigated. The microstructures from the weld center to the parent metal were the superfine ferrite+pearlite in the weld center, the deformed fine ferrite + pearlite in the thermomechanically affected zone, the tempered sorbite, troosite and martensite in the heat affected zone. The microhardness of the joint decreased gradually from the parent metal to the weld center. The tensile properties of the joint were significantly improved in both the strength and ductility. The microstructure evolution, microhardness variation and fracture position are attributed to the various thermal histories of different positions.