Abstract: Fuselage skins of aircraft are joined using friction stir welding. A strip of cladding is removed from the skins along an abutment between the skins before the skins are welded in order to prevent the cladding from interfering with the welding process. The cladding is replaced after the welding is completed.

Abstract: Fuselage skins of aircraft are joined using friction stir welding. A strip of cladding is removed from the skins along an abutment between the skins before the skins are welded in order to prevent the cladding from interfering with the welding process. The cladding is replaced after the welding is completed.

Abstract: A method for forming an aluminum alloy article having improved mechanical properties using a solid-state joining process in which the problem of ductility reduction is minimized by conducting a thermal exposure treatment prior to solution heat treatment. This thermal exposure treatment, done at a temperature below the solution heat treatment temperature, releases stored energy in the aluminum-alloy material. The aluminum-alloy material then does not have sufficient energy to cause recrystallization and abnormal grain growth during the subsequent solution heat treatment process. The resultant aluminum-alloy material has a restored mechanical strength with only a minor, but acceptable, decrease in original ductility.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatus and methods for clamping around a manufacturing tool engaging a work piece. In one embodiment, a clamp includes a moveable support arranged to at least partially surround a circumference defining a work area. A friction reducing element is attached to the support to apply pressure to the surface when the clamp is engaged with the work piece, and to allow the clamp to be moved with the manufacturing tool. In accordance with other aspects of the invention, the clamp co-annularly or partially surrounds the manufacturing tool. In another embodiment, the manufacturing tool is a friction stir welding tool.

Abstract: A sealant for a weld joint and an associated weld joint and method are provided. The sealant includes aluminum and germanium and is characterized by a melting temperature that is lower than the melting temperature of the structural member that is joined. The sealant, which is disposed between faying surfaces of the structural members, can fill the spaces between the structural members to prevent the entry of chemicals, moisture, debris, and other substances, thereby reducing the likelihood of corrosion of the joint or structural members at the interface. Further, the sealant can be diffusion bonded to the faying surfaces, for example, by the heat generated during the joining process.