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Ultrasonic Stir Welding Development for Ground Based & In-Situ Fabrication & Repair for In Space Propulsion Systems/Commercial Space Sector
Completed
TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
Description
The current state-of-the art in solid state welding is friction stir welding (FSW). The USW process takes solid state welding to a higher level by introducing ultrasonic energy into a stir weld process similar to FSW and decouples the FSW process elements (stirring, heating and forging) and allows independent control of each resulting in greater process control.
Benefits
By reducing forces, USW can be integrated with \xd2inexpensive\xd3 off-the-shelf robots. This could benefit the robotics industry in manufacturing sectors including automotive and shipbuilding.
Details
| Technology area | Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing > Manufacturing > Manufacturing Processes |
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: MSFC CIF (MSFC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL |
| Start date | 2013-10-01 |
| End date | 2014-09-30 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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