Abstract: In a method and apparatus for joining at least two adjoining workpieces by friction welding, a rotatable shaft is provided at its front end with a friction welding tool which is biased toward the workpieces to plasticize an area of the workpiece into which the tool enters while the plasticized material is displaced and stored in, or around, the tool. Upon passing through the top workpiece and entering the lowermost work piece, the tool is removed and the stored plasticized material is returned to the void provided by the tool upon removal thereof from the workpieces for joining the workpieces.