Friction Stir Welding - ESAB

Contentspage pageIntroduction 4Process principles 6Weldable alloys 6Process characteristics 7Welding parameters 7Tools 7Design principles 8Tools for steels 8Retractable pin tool 8Bobbin tool 10Process speed 10Aluminium 13Application areas 15Aerospace 15Space industry 15Civil aviation 16Aerospace R&D 16Shipbuilding 18Application advances 18Parts and components 19Automotive industry 21Automotive applications 22Tailor welded blanks (TWB´s) 27Superplastic forming 27Extruders and extrusions– with special focus on rolling-stock panels 28Steel and other high-temperature materials 30Application examples 32Case study: Swedish Nuclear 32Case study: Marine Aluminium a.s, Norway 35Equipment 37Full-scale automation forhigh-volume applications 37Modular flexibility for“standard” applications 37Robotised for more complex applications 37Quality and enviromental aspects 39Environmental aspects of Friction Stir Welding 39Less weld-seam preparation 39Fewer resources 39Noise, an underestimated health threat 39Energy saving FSW process 39Less post-treatment and impacton the environment 39Friction Stir Welded components offerthrough-life environmental gains 40Quality 40Economics 41Example of cost analysis 42Compared to arc welding 44Conclusions 46DISCLAIMERWhilst all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained inthis handbook at the time of going to press, ESAB gives no warranty with regard to its accuracy orcompleteness. It is the responsibility of the reader to check the accuracy of the informationcontained in this handbook, read product labels and equipment instructions and comply with currentregulations. If the reader is in any doubt with regard to the proper use of any technology they shouldcontact the manufacturer or obtain alternative expert advice. ESAB accepts no responsibility orliability for any injury, loss or damage incurred as a result of any use or reliance upon the informationcontained in this handbook.3