Experimental determination of optimum parameters for stainless steel 316L annealed ultrasonic consolidation

Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of different parameter configurations of oscillation amplitude, welding speed, and normal force at 478 K (400°F) on the linear welding density of stainless steel 316L annealed utrasonically consolidated (UC) samples, and present an optimum parameter set based upon maximum linear welding density criteria. Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the application of analysis of variance to different experimental designs in order to compare factor effects and obtain the optimum linear welding density parameter set for the ultrasonic consolidation of stainless steel 316L annealed samples. Findings – This work includes experimental results at assessing the explained variation due to factor effects on linear welding density, the statistical significance of these factors, and the combination of UC process parameters that maximizes linear welding density in stainless steel 316L annealed samples. Research limitations/implications – The paper presents results obtained with a specific UC system, a standard sample configuration, and relatively constant frictional conditions. Originality/value – This work is a first step towards a reproducible UC of stainless steel 316L foils with high linear welding density.