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Tuesday, June 7, 2005 - 2:00 PM
FSJ053.4

Advances in the Self-Reacting Friction Stir Weld Technique with Application Examples

M. Skinner, B. Edwards, G. Sylva, MTS Systems Corp, Eden Prairie, MN

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Summary:

Since its invention in 1991 Friction Stir Welding (FSW) has undergone an incredibly rapid development when compared historically to typical fusion welding processes. The traditional fixed-pin tool (FPT) welding mode is the most common application of the process. However, FPT FSW has some production limitations including high tooling costs and limitations on joint designs. In contrast, the self-reacting pin tool (SRPT) welding mode give the designer new joint design options and can greatly reduce fixture costs.

This presentation will discuss the recent advances in SRPT FSW. These advances include welding aluminum alloys as thin as 2.5 mm and thinner. This presentation will also include information on thick gauge applications and a comparison of SRPT to FPT friction stir welding.