Hufschmied introduces solid carbide tool FSW monoblock for safe series production
Bobingen, January 9, 2024 – Hufschmied Zerspanungssysteme presents the FSW monoblock, a friction stir welding tool whose shoulder and pin are made entirely of carbide. This innovation allows for consistent quality throughout its lifespan compared to conventional steel tools that can show continuous wear and tear. The reliability of the FSW monoblock pays off particularly in series production, for example in the automotive industry.
FSW-Monoblock takes into account the growing importance of the energy and material-saving joining process Friction Stir Welding. A prime example of this are battery trays for electric vehicles. The gauge-marked and high-precision ground FSW tools with screw head system save users from having to measure the pin to precisely determine the welding depth.
FSW-Monoblock has been particularly optimized for the requirements of welding die-cast parts made of silicon-containing alloys (AlSi12(Fe)). Due to their increased silicon content (Si > 10%), these die-cast materials used in electric vehicles exhibit abrasive behavior. The tool's concave shoulder easily handles abrasive cast skins, and the PVD-coated solid carbide construction prevents build-up of tool or shoulder material during the joining process to avoid contamination of the weld. This means that the high requirements for corrosion guarantees can also be met for electric vehicles.
Tools marked with gauge blocks
The FSW monoblock tools from Hufschmied are compatible with all FSW machines and are now available with shoulder diameters up to 36 mm. The of Hufschmied Zerspanungssysteme FSW monoblock tools manufactured in Germany and ground to final dimensions with different locking units make handling easier for users and reduce the effort required for additional measurements and setting the welding depth. Manufacturing tolerances are taken into account. Custom versions are produced upon request.
New specialist group for friction stir welding
“Every process is individual and requires a holistic view and comprehensive advice,” says Dr. Javier Fuentes, at Hufschmied responsible for research and development of cutting materials and coatings. Decades of experience with metallographic analysis flowed into the new business area, which he leads together with Mathis Toppmöller, Business Development Friction Stir Welding/New Technologies. Toppmöller adds: “Hufschmied Zerspanungssysteme has made use of its decades of material know-how and is shaking up the thermal world of joining. We offer our customers more robust processes, faster machining and lower tool wear. We have transferred our proven philosophy in the area of cutting tools to FSW. We stand for holistic, individual customer advice and help our customers achieve the best possible manufacturing process.”