TWI Digital Library

Friction stir welding (FSW) has been widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and high-tech industries due to its superior mechanical properties after welding. However, when it becomes matter to perform a high-quality joint using FSW, it is necessary to secure an advanced tilt angle (usually 1 to 5 degrees) using a dedicated FSW machine, and to use a joint structure and a restraining jig that can withstand the tool pressure applied during jointing process using a highly rigid processing machine. One issue that has become a challenge in this process is "productivity and versatility". To solve this problem, we have conducted the research and development of multi-functioned machines and robotics with FSW tools, which combine cutting/milling and FSW functions as one in the recent years. However, the narrow process window makes it prone to welding defects and lacks of repeatability, which makes a limitation for FSW its use in the fields where precisions required.

13th International Symposium, 21-23 May 2024, Session 2: Techniques I, Paper 01