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Use of friction stir welding (FSW) to replace mechanical fastening in fabrication of an aircraft component in the ROCT Project (Rib One with Crux and Tees) is described. Design is shown of the part, which was assembled using four butt welds from wrought plate and die forgings of aluminium alloy 2050-T3 (Al-Li) of 15.5 mm in thickness. Stages of the project are outlined, including welding equipment used, tack welds, clamping, welding sequence to avoid distortion, and results of the demonstration activity.

9th International Symposium, 15-17 May 2012, Session 6A: Applications II, Paper 02