Thompson is to supply a linear friction welding machine to a top research organisation for developing new production processes.
The machine will be used at Coventrys Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) to look into ways of joining multi-metal components for the aerospace, medical and power generation industries. It will be housed at the MTCs site at Ansty Park as part of a £90m expansion programme.
The machine, which will have a 130 ton forge load capability, will not only be designed to weld parts up to 10,000mm sq, but also in a variety of materials including stainless steel, titanium and high temperature nickel alloys. It will be equipped with a number of features including an automatic component handling system and enhanced process monitoring and data capture facilities.
As members of the MTC, Thompson will also share its process expertise on a range of other research projects in conjunction with collaborators such as Airbus and GKN.
Linear friction welding has much to offer in the development of new manufacturing methods and we look forward to working with the MTC on this exciting project, commented Simon Jones, Thompsons aerospace sales manager.
Chief executive Clive Hickman said the MTCs aim is to establish a UK centre of excellence for linear friction welding technologies in conjunction with one of its founding partners, The Welding Institute (TWI).
Were proud to be working with Thompson Friction Welding, a West Midlands based high value manufacturing business thats well established in this field and a global supplier to industry.
The company will be highlighting its latest developments in linear friction welding when it exhibits at the Japan International Welding Show in Tokyo from Apr 23-26.
Thompson produces rotary and linear friction welding equipment for component makers in the aerospace, automotive, construction machine and mineral exploration industries.
Find out more information on Thompson here
(Photo caption l to r: Simon Jones, Thompsons aerospace sales manager, and Dr Chris Dungey, the MTCs technology manager for high integrity fabrication)