Relation between viscoplastic flow, periodic feature and Joule heat validity for electrically assisted friction stir welding

Electrically assisted friction stir welding is a promising way to improve liquidity of viscoplastic metal. However, this local heat source only can take into effect in a certain contact interface status. Semi-analytical model and FEM are adopted to analyze materials flow in electrically assisted FSW. Semi-analysis results show that Joule heating is validity with rotation speed 1400 r/min and travel speed 400 mm/min. The maximum flow velocity is 0.033 m/s when travel speed is 400 mm/min, and it increases to 0.043 m/s with current assistant. Visco-plasticizing efficiency is a key factor to decide whether Joule heat is significant, and viscoplastic flow can periodically make circuit short. Periodic torque, axial force and onion rings surface show dynamic flow process, which can be used to illustrate the dynamic contact resistance feature and correct the calculation equation of Joule heat. This paper is aim to point out the potential relation between viscoplastic flow, periodic torque and Joule heating validity.