Joining of Ti-based bulk metallic glasses using resistance spot welding technology

Ti40Zr25Ni3Cu12Be20 bulk metallic glass was used to study the influence of key process parameters on the spot welds microstructures and mechanical properties. Spot weld size and crystallized volume fraction were found to interact in a complex fashion in controlling the joint mechanical response. Assessment of cooling rates indicated that crystallized volume fraction was more liable to reach significant levels in the heat-affected zone than the fusion zone. Conditions for which the welds sustained a glassy environment were also determined. Resistance spot welding was found to be a feasible technique for joining bulk metallic glasses.