Novel approaches to friction spot welding thin aluminium automotive sheet

Conventional welding methods, like resistance spot welding, are inefficient and difficult to apply to light alloys. Two alternative new solid state friction joining techniques, which have not yet been fully optimized, are high power Ultrasonic Spot and Friction Stir Spot Welding (USW & FSSW). Here we have compared the performance for these two processes for producing 'keyholeless' welds in thin aluminium automotive closure panels. For friction stir spot welding this was achieved through using a novel 'pinless' tool to create a joint without a retained keyhole and reduce the weld cycle time. The properties of the welds that can be produced by each technique are compared, together with the stages of weld formation, and the relationship between welding conditions and joint performance. © (2010) Trans Tech Publications.