L. N. Payton, Auburn University, Auburn University, AL

Summary: The application of metal cutting theory developed over the last 300 years permits the tool designer to very accurately predict the forces, cutting temperatures and pressures of FSW based upon the material properties of the alloys being machined and the selected tool geometry. Predictive weld schedules based upon these equations replaces the current empirically derived weld schedules which are the result of expensive "hunt and peck" experiments.