Refill Friction Spot Joining for Aerospace Application

Abstract

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">In the modern aircraft manufacturing, the cost reduction, the manufacturing time reduction, and the weight saving of aircraft are strongly demanded. The Refill Friction Spot Joining [<span class="xref">1</span>,<span class="xref">2</span>](FSJ, in other words FSSW, Friction Stir Spot Welding), which is one of innovative solid-state joining methodologies based on the Friction Stir Welding[<span class="xref">3</span>], is a promising technology that can replace rivets and fasteners. This technology is expected to offer cost reduction and weight saving for the aircraft manufacturing.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">In this study, to make stronger and reliable joints, the shoulder-plunging process of Refill FSJ was employed. The weldability of the Alodine or Chromic Acid Anodize coated materials along with a faying-surface sealant was investigated. The joint properties, such as tensile shear strengths and corrosion resistance, were evaluated. As a result, it was found that a sound joint can be made with a faying-surface sealant and its strength was almost the same as that of the joint made without sealant. Moreover, corrosion resistance of the faying surfaces was good.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">In terms of an automated production, an assembling trail with a 6-axis Refill FSJ robot was performed along with some actual parts. A high quality production without any distortion was achieved.</div></div>