Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state joining process developed at TWI Ltd in 1991. FSW is based on a solid-state joining process which uses frictional heat and mechanical deformation to create strong, high-quality bonds between materials. As the tool rotates and moves along the joint, it generates friction between the materials, causes them to soften without reaching their melting point. The softened materials are then mechanically stirred together, creating a solid-state weld which boasts excellent structural integrity and minimal distortion.

High Quality

• High joint strengths, good consistency

• Dense microstructure, no formation of hydrogen pores and no cracking

• Low heat input and low distortion

• Low residual stress

• Excellent surface quality

Wide Applicability

• Applicable for various materials, such as Al, Mg, Cu, Ti, Zn, Pb, steel, plastic and metal-matrix composite

• Enables joining of different product forms

• Dissimilar joint

High Efficiency

• Simple process, fully automated

• No pretreatment requirement

• Welding speed up to 6,000 mm/min

• Welding thickness up to 100 mm

Automatic Control

• Position control

• Force control

• Torque control

Environmentally Friendly

• Solid-state joining

• No shielding gases or filler wire requirement

• No filler material

• No fume, spatter, ultraviolet and electromagnetic radiation

• Low energy consumption and noiseless