DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FRICTION STIR WELDING OF METALS

摘要

Friction, which requires relative motion, pressure and time, is a powerful, efficient energy source for welding and reprocessing of materials. One variant, that of friction stir welding (FSW), is continuing to cause major excitement throughout the world for joining a range of alloys, particularly those based on aluminium. This presentation will trace the industrial development of the process since its invention in December 1991 to the present time. Attention will be given to tool evolution, welding properties, thermal management, innovations to enhance weld integrity, equipment evolution, and present and future applications through a range of industrial sectors.