Abstract: The thermal model of FSW based on the thermal elastic-plastic finite element method, and the transient temperature distribution of FS welded joints of 2024-T4 Al was simulated by using this model, which provides useful information for the investigation of FSW process. Simulation results show that the temperature distribution of the weld gradually decreases toward periphery in a radiate format, whose center is the probe, and the highest temperature in the weld can reach about 400℃. The initial terminal of the weld is a zone, in which the temperature gradient is great, and defects of the welding are easily produced in this zone. Temperature change at the end of the weld joint is as layer variation, the local serious defects are not easy to produce in this zone.

Key words: friction stir welding, aluminium alloy, temperature field