Methods and apparatus for retractable pin friction stir welding and spot welding
US7681773B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 29, 2009 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 29, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49826
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for friction stir welding is described that includes a stationary assembly having a bore therethrough, the bore having an inner diameter, and a rotational assembly having a welding end. At least the welding end of the rotational assembly extends through the bore. A portion of the rotational assembly is adjacent the inner diameter of the bore. At least one of the adjacent portion of the rotational assembly and the inner diameter of the stationary assembly are configured such that rotation of the rotational assembly will cause plasticized material from a welding process that has entered an area between the adjacent portion and the inner diameter to move towards a welding zone located proximate the welding end.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.