TWI

A review is presented of the growth in interest in friction stir welding (FSW) as measured by real industry applications and the distribution of related patent filings by time and geography, and case studies are reported to illustrate commonly occurring themes. Issues discussed include TWI patents and licensing policy, key prior art documents and sources, take-up of FSW by industry, patent filings by third parties, and the most active organisations in relation to holding of patents. Some process technology developments are outlined, including dissimilar metal joining, tool shape and configurations, retractable pin tools, process variations, friction stir spot welding and robotic FSW.

7th International Symposium, 20-22 May 2008, Poster Session, Paper 07