Abstract: A method for fixing an abradable material of random interlocked metallic fibers sintered and pressed to a specified thickness and density in place on a substrate is set forth where the abradable material bonded to a metal backing plate is placed with the metal backing plate engaging a substrate. The abradable material is compressed without heat to substantially a solid mass at spaced spots; the compressed spots are heated by electrical resistance to a sintering temperature and pressed to form a solid mass. The solid mass of each spot of abradable material is heated to an increased temperature by electrical resistance, welding the solid mass of abradable material to the substrate by completely penetrating the backing plate and forming a weld nugget.