Neue Fügetechniken mit höherer Prozesssicherheit

In joining technology new welding techniques were established in the last years, aiming at automation, higher process stability and higher economic efficiency. For arc welding processes, new technologies were developed to reduce and to focus heat input (e. g. Cold Metal Transfer and laserhybrid welding). Another advantage is the high welding velocity. For the conventional welding techniques the electrode welding is replaced by metal active gas welding in modern industrialized countries. Thereby flux cored wire electrodes are often applied. The weld pool is, analogous to electrode welding, protected against the atmosphere by a welding slag. By applying this technique, it can be welded in overhead positions and with a more stable arc. Moreover, the welding parameter window is wider and the welding error-rate is reduced. In the area of friction welding processes, the friction stir welding technique is gaining relevance. The work pieces are simply stirred with each other. The required heat generation and the stirring action are carried out by a rotating special shaped tool, resulting in a weld seam, which is produced without melting of the work piece (solid state welding). Materials and material combinations are joinable, which are known as severely or nonweldable when using conventional welding techniques. Successful welds were accomplished for high strength aluminum alloys, cast aluminum, magnesium, copper, titan, steel, steel-aluminum and polymers.