Patent attributes
An additive friction stir deposition system for refractory metals is disclosed herein. The additive friction stir deposition system includes a tool assembly and an induction element. The tool assembly includes a metal shaft defining a shaft central channel, and a ceramic tip defining a tip central channel. The metal shaft and the ceramic tip are configured to interlock to prevent relative rotation therebetween. The induction element is positioned adjacent to the ceramic tip. As a refractory metal feedstock is fed through the shaft central channel and the tip central channel, the induction element heats the portion of the refractory metal feedstock within the tip central channel, but does not heat the ceramic tip itself. Accordingly, the refractory metal feedstock can be heated prior to application to a workpiece without heating the tip of the tool assembly, improving performance of the additive friction stir deposition system and the resulting workpiece.
