Advances in Friction Stir Welding for Aerospace Applications

Abstract

Friction stir welding (FSW), an innovative solid-state joining technique, is finding greater use in aerospace applications through advances in materials development evaluations, structural design and testing programmes, tooling and process innovations, and standards and specification developments. To advance FSW from the research stage into direct application, performance and properties data are needed. Therefore, the NIAR in Wichita, Kansas, began a multipronged approach to facilitate technology transfer of friction stir welding into production applications. Research programmes are focused on materials evaluations (e.g. corrosion resistance), structures evaluations, weld tool development, and process innovations. This article is an edited version of the expert paper and summarises the findings that were underpinned by detailed tests whose results were provided and are logged at WSU. A major conclusion is that significant advances continue to be made.