Method and apparatus for locally clamping components that are to be joined by friction stir welding
US7490750B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K20/126
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The apparatus (50) includes a friction stir welding tool (100), a local clamping means (200), and an interface (300) that joins the tool (100) and the local clamping means (200). The local clamping means (200) is in close proximity to the at least one sidewall (130) of the tool (100) and has a housing (210) and a plurality of contact devices (220). The local clamping means (200) transfers a clamping force to the first and the second components (C1, C2) and holds them firmly in place during welding. The local clamping means (200) includes a plurality of contact devices (220) that may take the form of casters, rollers (222), and ball bearings (224). The location of the contact devices (220) is significant as external clamping is greatly reduced, and often eliminated, as the contact devices (220) are brought into close proximity to the area of the weld.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.