AWS D17.3/D17.3M:2016 – Specification for Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum Alloys for Aerospace Applications

AWS D17.3/D17.3M:2016 establishes general requirements for the friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminum alloys in aerospace applications. It provides standardized procedures for the design, fabrication, qualification, and inspection of aerospace components joined using the FSW process.

Highlights:

• Design requirements for FSW joints in aerospace structures
• Qualification procedures for welders, operators, and welding procedures
• Approved base metal specifications and usage limitations
• Tooling, fixture, and FSW equipment setup requirements
• Fabrication guidelines for welding parameters and process control
• Visual and mechanical inspection methods for weld quality verification
• Acceptance criteria for discontinuities, mechanical properties, and visual appearance
• Quality assurance provisions, documentation, and recordkeeping standards

New in the 2016 Edition:

• Updates to reflect advancements in friction stir welding techniques and aerospace material performance
• Enhanced inspection and qualification procedures for improved compliance and reliability
• Supersedes AWS D17.3/D17.3M:2010

Who’s It For:
Aerospace engineers, quality professionals, and fabricators involved in the production or qualification of aluminum structures using friction stir welding.

AWS D17.3/D17.3M-2016