Patent ID: 9174302
Filing Date: 2015-11-03
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A method of friction stir welding an arcuate joint formed by a first pipe segment and a second pipe segment, comprising: simultaneously operating (i) a first FSW tool on an exterior surface of the joint by rotating and traveling the first FSW tool along the exterior surface of the joint at a first penetration depth, and (ii) a second FSW tool on an interior surface of the joint by rotating and traveling the second FSW tool along the interior surface of the joint at a second penetration depth; traveling a first anvil on the interior surface of the joint in an opposing manner to the first FSW tool to provide a first juxtaposing force that supports the first FSW tool during operation; wherein the first anvil is rotatably coupled with a first arm through a coupling and the second FSW tool is rotatably coupled with a second arm through a head; wherein the first and second arms are coupled via a press; and traveling a second anvil on the exterior surface of the joint in an opposing manner to the second FSW tool to provide a second juxtaposing force that supports the second FSW tool during operation.