Feasibility of Using TIG Welding in Dissimilar Metals between Steel/Aluminum Alloy

Problem statement: Currently, in order to suppress intermetallic reaction layer formation during dissimilar metals welding between steel/aluminum alloy, only laser beam welding as self-brazing technique has been applied. However, TIG welding process might be one of welding process candidate for joining dissimilar metals welding between steel/aluminum alloys due to its capability in joining thin section. In the present study, the feasibility of application of TIG welding process in joining dissimilar metals between steel/aluminum alloy was evaluated. Approach: In order to realize the feasibility of TIG welding process, bead on the steel sheet experiment and dissimilar metals welding experiment was carried out. Results: From bead on the steel sheet experimental results, TIG welding could produce the partial penetration welding in 1 mm thickness steel sheet. In dissimilar metals welding experiment, TIG welding process as a self-brazing technique could successfully join dissimilar metal between steel and aluminum alloy. Moreover, the load resistance of bonded zone of dissimilar metals joints was higher than the load resistance of A1100 aluminum alloy after welding. Conclusion: These results indicated that TIG welding process is feasible to be dissimilar metals welding candidate for joining steel/aluminum alloy.