The Effect of Solution Heat Treatment Temperature on The Hardness of AA6061 Alloy in The TIG Welding Process

Abstract:

Welding induces various effects, including the generation of residual stress, deformation, alterations in shape, and changes in mechanical properties, particularly the hardness of the material in the welded zone due to the melting of the base material during the welding process. These factors can contribute to a reduction in product strength. This research aims to investigate the influence of solution treatment (ST) temperature on the hardness properties of aluminum 6061 with TIG welded joints. The study involves TIG welding to create joints, followed by a solution heat treatment process, during which the welded product is heated in a furnace at temperatures of 450, 475, and 500 °C, with a fixed holding time of one hour for each condition. Following the heat treatment, hardness tests are conducted to evaluate the condition of the TIG welded joints as influenced by the solution treatment temperature. The results demonstrate a significant effect of the solution treatment temperature on the hardness of the AA6061 alloy in the TIG welded joints. The highest hardness value, 80 HRE, is observed in the weld metal area of the ST 475 °C sample, while the lowest value, 37.17 HRE, is recorded in the base metal area of the ST 450 °C sample.

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 1150)
• Pages: 59-66
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-Ot44Hy
• Online since: June 2025
• Authors: Azwinur Azwinur, Akhyar Akhyar*, Syukran Syukran, Marzuki Marzuki, Adi Saputra Ismy
• Keywords: Aluminum 6061, Mechanical Properties, Solution Treatment, TIG Welding

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