3. Features
3.1 Equipment
Maintaining the position of the tool in relation to the surface of the metal sheets during its movement is accompanied by significant mechanical forces which are transmitted to the welding head support and to the workpiece holding fixture, which must include a reaction bar in line with the joint to contain the tool's mobile support and penetration force.
On the other hand, the flow of viscous metal from the front to the rear of the tool hinders its progress.
The application of the FSW process therefore requires machine-tool-type mechanization, similar to a milling installation, providing the classic functions of supporting and moving the welding head (figure
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Features
FSW welding
Bibliography
Also in our database
Organizations
Most of the data concerning the process can be found at the British Welding Institute, TWI, and the French Welding Institute, IS.
The process is currently the subject of numerous research and development programs financed by companies and institutes, some of which are French (aeronautics, railways, etc.). They cover all aspects of the process: scientific, technological, economic and practical. All...
Websites
The following websites may also be consulted:
http://www.twi.co.uk of the TWI Institute (Great Britain).
http://www.eurostir.co.uk on the EUROSTIR program, part of the EUREKA framework on the process. The Eurostir...
Machine builders
(non-exhaustive list)
The main manufacturers of friction stir welding machines are listed below.
Figures 1 ,
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