Joining of Fibre-Reinforced Thermoplastic Polymer Composites by Friction Stir Welding—A Review

The objective of the current work is to show potential friction stir welding (FSW) and its variants join fibre-reinforced thermoplastic polymer (FRTP) composites. To accomplish that, FSW technique two other important variants, spot (FSSW) refill (RFSSW), are presented explained in a brief but complete way. Since joining FRTP composites by FSSW has not yet been demonstrated, literature review will be focused on RFSSW techniques. In each review, conditions parameters studied different authors discussed, as well most conclusions taken from them. About FSW, it can concluded that rotational speed have great influence heat generation, mixture quality, fibre fragmentation degree, while tilt angle only residual process. reduction internal external defects achieved adjusting axial force plunge depth. Threaded or grooved conical pins better results than geometries. Stationary shoulder tools showed performance conventional tools. Regarding RFSSW, possible deepen about parameters, feasibility demonstrated.