Abstract: A shear-assisted solid state welding method for joining of metal parts, involves a first step of heating opposing surfaces in a non-passivating environment to a temperature in the hot working temperature range of the metal. A second step involves bringing the opposing surfaces into contact while still in the hot working temperature range, and applying compressive stress sufficient to substantially prevent sliding in response to shear displacement, causing plastic flow in the hot layers. A third step involves imposing relative shear displacement of the metal work pieces without disengaging the opposing surfaces. The shear displacement induces plastic shear strain within the hot layers to progressively induce bonding.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling tubular goods which includes an elongate tubular body having a peripheral sidewall and opposed ends. The peripheral sidewall has a plurality of axial slots arranged circumferentially around the tubular body parallel to an axis of the tubular body. An articulating coupling protrudes from at least one of the opposed ends. The articulated coupling includes an insert positioned within the tubular body with radial pins that engage the slots, the pins being axially movable along the slots. A gripping assembly is provided at one of the opposed ends for engaging a tubular good.