Abstract: A friction welding method and apparatus which monitors temperatures at the interface of ferrous and nonferrous metal products being welded and provides controls for insuring satisfactory welds and also provides automatic means of verification thereof as well as rejection of unsatisfactory welds. Light-sensing means is utilized to detect acceptable welding temperatures at the weld interface for initiating and controlling the welding or forging interval and application of forging pressures. Visible signal means is provided for indicating a faulty weld and mandatory operation of manual means is required for release of faulty welds. Automatic controls in the form of fluid pressure logic circuitry provides necessary interlocks and sequences of operation.