Patent ID: 6070784
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
A friction stir welding apparatus for joining together workpieces along a circumferential weld line comprising:a base;a spindle extending perpendicularly from the base;a first workpiece supporter adjustably mounted on a proximal portion of the spindle;a second workpiece supporter adjustably mounted on a distal portion of the spindle;a first arm extending perpendicularly from the spindle between the first and second workpiece supporters;an internal backup roller rotatably attached to a distal end of the first arm;a second arm extending perpendicularly from the spindle between the first and second workpiece supporters;an internal drive roller rotatably attached to a distal end of the second arm;an external roller rotatably attached to an external support;programmable motors for driving at least some of the rollers; anda friction stir welding tool coupled to the external support.