MAMMOTH FRICTION WELDER FROM THOMPSON

By Thompson Friction Welding
schedule5th Sep 13

Thompson claims it has built the world’s largest direct drive friction welding machine for joining parts typically used in construction machines and exploration tools.

The machine has a forging force of 400 tonnes, which is 100 tonnes more powerful than its previous biggest model, and will be used by a customer in North America to produce hydraulic parts.

It has been equipped with Thompson’s new dual tool flash removal device and latest generation HMI system, which provides a user-friendly graphical representation of the machine’s functions. 

The system is also designed to allow an operator to remotely access the machine from either a tablet device or smartphone.

Growing customer demand for equipment capable of generating higher weld forces for joining components such as piston rods, cylinders and drill pipes has prompted the new machine design, explained sales director Nick Edge.

“It’s totally scalable which means it will be possible to use this platform to produce machines with even more forging power while also retaining the benefits of the direct drive process which include lightweight tooling and quick changeover times,” he added.

The 400t model is the latest to be added to Thompson’s range, which also includes a new generation of machines for manufacturing drill rods, rock drills, truck axles and track rollers.

Thompson produces machines for component makers in the aerospace, automotive, construction machine and mineral exploration industries. This year marks the 50th anniversary of its first-ever friction weld. www.thompson-friction-welding.com