As automakers expand the use of aluminum in vehicles, interest in alternative joining technologies, such as friction stir spot welding (FSSW), is increasing.
Also known as friction stir spot joining, FSSW has been around since 2003. The process was developed by Mazda Motor Corp. and Kawasaki Heavy Industries to assemble the aluminum hood and rear doors of the RX-8 sports car. Since then, FSSW has been used by Toyota Motor Corp., General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co., Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Peugeot Citroen. The technology is also getting interest from manufacturers of airplanes, appliances, trucks, trains, off-road equipment and even consumer electronics.