P. A. Fleming, D. M. Wilkes, G. E. Cook, D. DeLapp, T. Bloodworth, D. Lammlein, Welding Automation Laboratory Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN; G. R. Shearer, A. M. Strauss, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN; T. J. Lienert, M. Bement, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM; T. Prater, Vanderbilt University, Clarksville, TN
Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a relatively new welding method which is finding application in a number of industries including marine, aerospace and transportation. It offers a number of advantages over fusion welding methods, but also presents new challenges. Defects can occur during FSW when incorrect weld parameters are chosen, or when joint misalignment is present. In this work, we present results of our recent work on automatic detection of defects using non-destructive sensing (force signals, acoustic emissions) as well as on closed loop motor control for correction of these errors. This work is aimed at establishing a more robust FSW process which can automatically adjusted to provide reliably good welds.
Summary: Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a relatively new welding method which is finding application in a number of industries including marine, aerospace and transportation. It offers a number of advantages over fusion welding methods, but also presents new challenges. Defects can occur during FSW when incorrect weld parameters are chosen, or when joint misalignment is present. In this work, we present results of our recent work on automatic detection of defects using non-destructive sensing (force signals, acoustic emissions) as well as on closed loop motor control for correction of these errors. This work is aimed at establishing a more robust FSW process which can automatically adjusted to provide reliably good welds.
