Editorial

Abstract

In recent years significant understanding of the welding processes and welding materials have been possible due to intense R & D work. New processes, new materials are being introduced and at the same time overall integrity requirements under severe service conditions are in demand by the codes and standards. Friction stir welding (FSW), for example, a novel solid-state welding process, is now available to the industries for full utilization of its vast potentialities. The FSW process is inherently simple, with few variables and other inherent advantages. However, lot of research works on FSW process are in progress to explore its technical characteristics interfacing with different materials as well as processes. This will develop more confidence among the fabricators and will undoubtedly increase the domain of existing applications. FSW is already been applied in aircraft, ship building and automobile industry. Recently FSW process has been included in ASME Section IX for power plant application indicating gradual penetration in different sectors.