Abstract: A method of friction welding a first component to a second component, the method having the steps of: rotating the first component relative to the second component about a rotation axis; and bringing the first component into contact with the second component; wherein, while the first component and the second component are in contact, a first average force is applied during a first stage of the friction welding process and a second average force is applied during a second stage of the friction welding process; and the second average force is different from the first average force.

Abstract: A method of friction welding a first component to a second component, the method having the steps of: rotating the first component relative to the second component about a rotation axis; and bringing the first component into contact with the second component; wherein, while the first component and the second component are in contact, a first average force is applied during a first stage of the friction welding process and a second average force is applied during a second stage of the friction welding process; and the second average force is different from the first average force.

Abstract: A method for welding together pieces which form a curved or angled end product using a friction welding process. The method includes: providing first and second pieces which together define the end product geometry, each piece including an end product geometry portion and a sacrificial weld portion, the sacrificial weld portion forming a dog-leg relative to the end product geometry portion and terminating in a planar weld interface surface. The pieces are arranged with their planar weld interface surfaces together at a weld surface interface and the sacrificial weld portions in coaxial alignment. Mechanical friction is applied between the planar weld interface surfaces sufficient to plastically deform the sacrificial weld portions. An axial force is applied along the co-axis of the sacrificial weld portions sufficient to upset the sacrificial weld portions and bring together the end product geometry portions. The sacrificial geometry portions are removed to provide the end product.

Abstract: A method for welding together pieces which form a curved or angled end product using a friction welding process. The method includes: providing first and second pieces which together define the end product geometry, each piece including an end product geometry portion and a sacrificial weld portion, the sacrificial weld portion forming a dog-leg relative to the end product geometry portion and terminating in a planar weld interface surface. The pieces are arranged with their planar weld interface surfaces together at a weld surface interface and the sacrificial weld portions in coaxial alignment. Mechanical friction is applied between the planar weld interface surfaces sufficient to plastically deform the sacrificial weld portions. An axial force is applied along the co-axis of the sacrificial weld portions sufficient to upset the sacrificial weld portions and bring together the end product geometry portions. The sacrificial geometry portions are removed to provide the end product.