Mon, 11 November, 2024
We are holding a joint event in collaboration with Stirweld to showcase cutting-edge tank welding performed using Stirweld’s innovative retractable pin Friction Stir Welding (FSW) head technology, under the publicly-funded Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) MASTER project.
The event will take place at TWI Cambridge on 11 March, 2025 and will feature live welding demonstrations and speakers from a range of organisations, including GKN Aerospace, who are collaborating to advance the manufacture of aluminium hydrogen storage tanks for the aerospace industry.
Speaking on the collaboration, Stirweld CEO, Laurent Dubourg said, “We are delighted to be working alongside TWI. Their expertise in R&D, combined with our retractable pin technology, offers unique opportunities for advancing friction stir welding techniques. “
TWI Section Manager for friction welding and processes, Kate Franklin, commented, "The FSW welding head provided by Stirweld has enabled TWI to make advancements in aligning our research activities with commercially available retractable pin FSW equipment. This collaborative initiative is an opportunity for us to pursue ambitious projects, with the aim of offering innovative and effective welding solutions."
Figure 1. Stirweld FSW head with retractable pin
As a solid-state welding technique, retractable pin FSW is particularly well-suited to applications where joint quality is critical.
This ongoing collaboration reflects the shared commitment of TWI and Stirweld to maintain our leadership in the field of FSW and to explore new applications for this technology.
You can find out more and register for this event, here.