Friction welding specialist Thompson (www.thompson-friction-welding.co.uk) has played a key role in a research project to develop advanced manufacturing processes for aerospace and automotive parts.

The two-year study — supported by Innovate UK — looked at not only the solid-state bonding of new and dissimilar materials but also the joining of primary assemblies.

Together with project partners Birmingham University, Constellium and project leader GKN Aerospace, Thompson used its range of linear friction welding machines to produce a selection of components, including an airframe wing rib and an automotive structure.

As a result, the company has been asked to undertake further research for a number of companies that are keen to reduce the weight and cost of automotive parts.

Sales engineer Simon Jones says: “This work has pushed forward the technology readiness level of near-net-shape parts, using linear friction welding. It has generated interest from a wide variety of manufacturers who want to
explore the benefits of the process.”