Patent ID: 8348136
Filing Date: 2013-01-08
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A method for performing circumferential stir welding without an internal mandrel or internal supports, comprising: providing a first arcuate outer surface; providing a second arcuate outer surface; orienting the first and second arcuate outer surfaces to be stacked vertically with respect to one another; aligning said first arcuate outer surface and said second arcuate outer surface such that an end of each is abutted to form a seam; providing a first ring assembly having a first inner ring, a first outer ring disposed radially outward from the first inner ring, and a plurality of first clamp assemblies extending radially inward beyond said first inner ring; providing a second ring assembly having a second inner ring, a second outer ring disposed radially outward from the second inner ring, and a plurality of second clamp assemblies extending radially inward beyond said second inner ring; positioning said first ring assembly and said second ring assembly adjacent to said seam, wherein said first ring assembly is spaced from said second ring assembly with said seam therebetween and wherein an inner surface of said first arcuate outer surface and said second arcuate outer surface are unsupported in a normal direction; providing a stand that supports the first and second outer surfaces and the first and second ring assemblies in a vertical arrangement; creating a bore in said first arcuate outer surface and said second arcuate outer surface wherein a portion of said bore is intersected by said seam; placing a pin of a rotating tool within said bore; forcing said tool onto said first arcuate outer surface and said second arcuate outer surface wherein said force is reacted by at least one of said first ring assembly and said second ring assembly and said force is not reacted with an internal mandrel; rotating said tool; translating said tool with respect to said first arcuate outer surface and said second arcuate outer surface to form a weld therebetween; removing said pin from said seam to reveal a hole; and plugging the hole.