R. Nash, P. Ainsworth, Kaiser Aluminum, Spokane, WA; A. Reynolds, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC; D. Burford, National Institute for Aviation Research, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS
Friction Stir Processing opens new possibilities in the design and manufacture of Aircraft Structures. Kaiser Aluminum has been actively supporting Friction Stir Processing research in several areas. Specifically research has concentrated on 1) the development of new products that are enabled by Friction Stir Processing and Welding, 2) Optimization of Friction Stir joints and processes, 3) Supporting generation of Specifications and Standards which facilitate implementation of Friction Stir Processed structures and 4) Generation of Design Data that enables Friction Stir Processed Structures. Examples include new products such as wider sheet than currently available in the industry and tailor welded blanks. Optimization includes process development for the production of the highest quality and highest productivity joints. Standards and Specification development and design data generation is conducted in coordination with Industry Committees.
