Inertia friction welding is a variation of the rotary friction welding process. Inertia friction welding uses kinetic energy with applied force to join parts together. The kinetic energy is achieved by the use of flywheels, a set of heavy rotating wheels that are used to store rotational energy.
Varying amounts of kinetic energy are needed depending on two factors: the type of materials being joined together and the geometry of the weld. Once the material and geometry are known, it is then possible to pre-calculate the amount of kinetic energy that will be required for the weld. The act of inertia friction welding follows a carefully designed process:
Once this process is completed, the two original parts are now 100% bonded together creating a fully joined, solid state part. The time it takes to complete a weld from start to finish will vary depending on the power input placed upon the two parts. The power input is controlled by the forge force. To increase the power input, simply increase the forge force. This will increase the torque at the weld interface which will convert the kinetic energy into heat more quickly. The heat will have less time to dissipate so the weld upset will increase.
Why do this? If the power input is varied, the same weld can be made either faster or slower, adjusting the mechanical properties of the weld. Depending on the part you are bonding and cycle time you desire, this may be important.
MTI Can Solve Your Problems
At MTI, we specialize in engineering new solutions based on customer requests. We want you to understand our processes because we know that they can help you. Whatever manufacturing issues you may be encountering, let MTI work together with you, to use our processes, to solve your problems. We’ll build a machine that makes your part, we’ll make the part for you, or we’ll help you make the part even better.
Learn more about the MTI process or watch how friction welding can be put to work for you.