Common Welding Methods to Join Aircraft Parts

In the realm of aircraft manufacturing and assembly, it is important that aircraft parts and aeronautical components made from metal can be effectively and reliably attached to one another with enough strength to take on the intensive forces of flight. In the present, one of the most common methods of such attachment is welding, that of which is a fabrication process where high heat is used to melt components so that they may fuse together. Depending on the part in question, a number of welding processes may be carried out based on varying needs, each differing in the equipment and procedures used. To help you better understand aircraft manufacturing, we will briefly discuss the most common welding techniques used in the industry.

Friction welding (FRW) is a standard technique used for two or more components, and this process allows for joints to be formed through the application of friction, pressure, and heat. Friction welding may be used for many types of metals, often being relied on when joining aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, steels, and stainless steels. Additionally, friction welding may also be used for certain nonferrous materials, cobalt-based superalloys and magnesium being two examples.

Another method that also uses friction is friction stir welding (FSW). With this technique, a solid-state joining process is followed where friction creates the necessary heat for fusion before pressure is induced to bring materials together for bonding. Friction stir welding is most commonly used for dissimilar types of metals that have a high strength-to-weight ratio and low flexibility. Furthermore, this method also ensures that metal sections or high carbon steels can be joined without needing to carry out post-weld heat treatment (PWHT).

Gas metal arc welding, or GMAW, is one of the most popular methods of arc welding as a result of being a rapid and inexpensive process. With this technique, a constant current power source supplies an electrode with power, and the heated electrode causes materials to melt so that they may be fused together. GMAW also is fairly straightforward to learn in terms of how weld control works in varying settings.

For high-quality welds where one wishes to not use a filler material, laser beam welding (LBW) may be an optimal choice. True to its name, laser beam welding is when a laser beam is relied on for joining materials. Oftentimes, this process proves beneficial for repairing damaged parts and for keeping assemblies as light as possible.

Diffusion welding (DFW) is a somewhat unique process, as rather than joining parts at the surface, diffusion welding consists of joining parts molecularly. In order for this to be done, a process similar to soldering is carried out, though without the reliance on mechanical pressure. Instead, materials are secured together with bolts, clamps, and fixtures during the cooling process, and the finished product will have a bond stronger than standard welding or brazing could achieve.

Beyond the aforementioned techniques, other welding methods such as flash welding and resistance spot welding may be used, and both follow similar processes to the others with the use of heat to fuse parts. Here at Aviation Parts Online, we offer customers access to a wide range of items that they may use for welding and manufacturing, ensuring that all your operations run smoothly and efficiently. With AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation, we guarantee only the highest quality products for our customers, all of which have been sourced from top global manufacturers that we trust. With our easy to peruse catalogs and 24/7x365 RFQ services, receiving quotes and making purchases has never been easier. Get in contact with a team member of ours today and experience how Aviation Parts Online can serve as your strategic sourcing partner for all your needs!


Share


Recent Twitter Posts

Semiconductor's Certifications and Memberships
Thank You for Visiting!

Remember, If You Want A Competitive Quote for Parts In Fifteen Minutes Or Less, You Can Simply Fill Out the Request for Quote form On This Website’S Home Page.

Request for Quote

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.