TWI Digital Library

The design of a polycrystalline cubic boron nitride friction stir welding tool, tool holder and machine for use with high melting temperature materials is described. A polycrystalline cubic boron nitride truncated cone tool tip, capable of working at 1200 deg.C, is attached to a tungsten carbide shank which also carries a thermocouple. The tool holder is liquid cooled to protect heat-sensitive components and to maintain the desired workpiece temperature. It is fitted with a shroud to supply shielding gas. A friction stir welding machine with a tapered tool holder to ensure accuracy, and with tool position control and load control in the Z-axis and X-axis directions, is recommended.

4th International Symposium, 14-16 May 2003, Session 9B: Steels 1, Paper 03