History and Principles of FSW

TWI, a British welding research institute, developed friction stir welding in 1991. Hitachi, Ltd., as a member of the research and development team, worked on the practical applications of the technology, developing a device for FSW welding of 25m aluminium material by FSW. The principle is shown in Figure 1. A revolving metal tool progresses along the welding line, where the aluminum alloy is softened and welded by frictional heat.

Figure 1 : Principles of FSW

As it moves along the welding line, a revolving metal tool generates frictional heat that melts the aluminum and forms the welded joint.

• Features : FSW (Friction Stir Welding)