Aerospace - Mazak MegaStir

Manufacturers in the aerospace industry pioneered Friction Stir Welding (FSW) technology in the late ’90s. These companies saw the value in this time-saving process, one that could significantly reduce the number of weld defects in the production of large aluminum structures.

FSW technology offers a better solution for the constant struggle with strength-to-weight ratio for aerospace components and assemblies. The ability to reduce weight with FSW translates to a greater payload, while the avoidance of slight weld distortions over a given length caused by competing weld technologies significantly increases propellant volume – all of which serve to create aircraft capable of higher speeds and/or reduced fuel consumption.

FSW continues to evolve alongside the materials designed to improve vehicle performance, a factor that makes the process’ ability to join dissimilar materials far more important. And as Mazak MegaStir pursues continuous process improvement, we open doors for our customers to implement and explore new applications for our technology and create the aircraft of the future.