Connect, no.141, March - April 2006, p.8

Causing a stir in the welding world

The latest acquisition by TWI Yorkshire adds a new dimension to the company's capabilities. The RoboStir TM System, purchased from Friction Stir Link Inc in Waukesha, USA, combines powerful friction stir welding technology with the flexibility of a robot. This advanced welding system will provide the opportunity for TWI to develop further 3D welding techniques and applications, and also friction stir spot welding as an alternative to resistance welding.

The addition of this machine will create a suite of FSW equipment unrivalled in the world and this, coupled with the wealth of knowledge of FSW at TWI, will create a centre of excellence in this exciting technology.

This will present benefits to TWI member companies by offering the opportunity to explore friction stir welding as an alternative joining process for a more diverse range of applications. Indeed, we are expecting increased interest from customers throughout the world, in the same way that previous advancements in FSW technology by TWI has.

For more information about TWI's extensive friction stir welding capabilities, contact Jonathan Martin at TWI ( jonathan.martin@twi.co.uk).

The RoboStir friction stir welding system

The RoboStir TM friction stir welding system, soon to be installed at TWI's new facilities in Yorkshire
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