Aerospace
Space Applications
In aerospace, Friction Stir Welding was first applied to the launch vehicles of the Delta II, Delta IV, Atlas V, and Vulcan launch vehicles. In these launches, it was also used to seal their Cryogenic Upper Stages.
Afterwards, it was applied to the external fuel tank of the Spave Shuttle, the Ares I and its successor the SLS Core, the Orion ships, and the SpaceX Falcons 1 and 9-Heavy.
Aircraft Applications
Starting with toe nails of ramps and cargo barrier beams of cargo planes, FSW usage has expanded to building wings and fuselages for many other types of commercial and military planes.
Gantry-FSW machines have special recognition for contributions to the industry, as implemented by BRÖTJE-Automation.
