Aluminum Foam Sandwiches for Lightweight Structures

The properties of sandwiches with aluminum foam and the special features of their use in lightweight welded structures are determined. The weldability of such sandwiches in foamed and non-foamed conditions is analyzed under friction stir welding, laser beam welding and short arc welding in protective gas. The process and mechanical properties of the welds are studied. The results are generalized in a catalog that may be useful for materials scientists and designers.