An introduction to friction stir welding and its development

摘要

The author provides an introduction to the friction stir welding technique and points out the advantages and disadvantages of this solid phase process. The materials suited to its application are highlighted and areas of future development are discussed. In December 1991 TWI invented and filed a patent~1 for a solid-phase welding technique called friction stir welding derivative of conventional friction welding and which would enable the advantages of so]id-phase welding to be applied to the fabrication of long butt and lap joints. The results of that initial feasibility study showed that, if this simple innovative welding method could be perfected, the benefits to industry would be enormous.