Maritime

Initially used in 1996 to make refrigeration unit doors for the fishing industry, Friction Stir Welding has spread to applications within the maritime industry up to and including shipbuilding itself. The Super Liner Ogasawara is the largest ship to date whose primary construction method is FSW. Currently, its most widespread application is welded body armor on amphibious assault vehicles. As FSW creates air- and water-tight seals and can maintain them at high pressures it has the capability to excel underwater.