Optimization of Tungsten Inert Gas Welding Parameters using Grey Relational Analysis for joining AA 6082 Pipes

Abstract

This work focusses on optimizing the tungsten inert gas welding parameters for welding AA6082 using multi-criteria decision-making grey relation analysis. Main tungsten inert gas welding parameters such as welding current, travel speed and arc length are investigated for the effect on the geometry of weld such as bead width, penetration, depth of heat affected zone and width of heat affected zone. The results of grey relational analysis proved that the optimum process parameters of the tungsten inert gas welding of AA6082 pipelines were 105 Ampere, 10 mm/min welding speed and 4 mm arc length. The least optimal parameters were 60 Ampere, 50 mm/min welding speed and 2 mm arc length. Factorial analysis proved that main effects of current, arc length and welding speed and interaction effects of current and welding speed have a significant effect on the bead characteristics such as bead width, penetration, depth and width of heat affected zone.

Keywords Heating systems, Geometry, Welding, Pipelines, Decision making, Tungsten, Optimization