Friction Stir Welding – Recent Developments in Tool and Process Technologies

Abstract

Improved weld integrity, reduced upper‐plate thinning, and higher welding speeds are some striking results of progress recently made in the field of friction‐stir welding through improvements of tools and processes. One technique, labelled Re‐Stir™, in particular, appears promising since it generates essentially symmetrical welds (see Figure for a cross‐section of the notch) and is potentially suitable for welding of dissimilar materials.