Initially, parts are loaded into the friction welding equipment. Experienced friction welders control this rotational movement (friction) through a series of unique parameters: Rotational Speed, Axial Force and Time.
After the three parameters are established, they're recorded and stored for use throughout the entire project. Using this quality approach ensures repeatable consistency for each additional weld produced on the machine. The 3-stage process is described below.
Friction welding has been used in the United States and Europe for over 50 years. While well-known to some, it's generally been a very well-kept secret. As customers understand the process, benefits become clearly obvious.
The Friction Welding Process was formally defined by AWS on Oct 15, 2008 in "Recommended
Practices AWS C6.1 for the Welding Industry".
Friction Welding is
a "solid-state joint process that produces coalescence of materials under compressive force contact of workpieces rotating or moving relative to one another to produce heat and to plastically displace material from the faying surfaces."
To view PSI, RPM and MM of a sample friction weld, click the image below:
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
One component is positioned in a stationary clamp. The second part is positioned in the rotating spindle, which is then brought up to a pre-defined rotational speed. At the right moment, pre-defined axial force is applied.
These conditions are maintained for a pre-determined amount of time until the desired temperatures and material conditions exist. It's during this stage that the two materials are plasticized (becoming one).
Rotational speed is stopped. Then increased axial force is applied until the desired upset is obtained - completing the weld. After joined part is unloaded and next two parts are loaded, the friction welding cycle repeats.
Weld Playback Graph
using a Thompson 4-Ton Friction Welding Machine RETURN TO TOP
