R + D Friction Stir Welding
Friction-stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state joining process (meaning the metal is not melted during the process) and is used for applications where the original metal characteristics must remain unchanged as far as possible. This process is primarily used on aluminum alloys and most often on large pieces. Recently, the FSW technique was applied to aluminum lithium alloys that would show cracking through fusion welding technique. This welding process is already applied to numerous aerospace structures such as Delta rockets and space shuttle.
TASS has good knowledge of the FSW welding process and is familiar with characterization of static and fracture properties of the welded parts. Application of the FSW technique for repairing cracks in aerospace parts and extending the FSW technology to other materials is part of TASS R&D goal.