Patent ID: 6142360
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: B23K,B29C

Abstract:
A method of friction welding two tubular members in an end to end relationship comprising the steps of:providing the end of each tubular member to be joined with a shaped portion, the shaped portion having a first surface which is substantially perpendicular to the radius of the tubular member and a second surface at an obtuse angle to the radius of the tubular member, such that when the ends to be joined are brought into contact with each other, the shaped portions define a three sided channel;locating a ring shaped member in the channel, the ring shaped member having a radius which is greater than the radius of the first surface and less than radii of external walls of the tubular members, and at least an internal portion of the ring shaped member having a quadrilateral cross-section; androtating the ring relative to the tubular members and subsequently compressing the ring, to bring the ring into contact with the shaped portions of the tubular members to form a friction weld which welds the tubular members together in end to end relationship.