Thompson friction welding machines

KUKA offers a range of compact and modular Thompson friction welding machines with forge capacities up to 400 t for the flexible implementation of friction welding processes of a wide range of material combinations and components.

Friction welding machines of Thompson set standards in terms of precision, dynamics, process control, and productivity.

Single and double ended machine designs based on platforms from 15 through 400T. The range offers standard and configured options with a wide range of additional features including machine external and internal flash systems or upset removal. Other additional configurable options include component measurement systems, marking systems, extraction systems, and flash or upset management systems.

Users of Thompson machines benefit from repeatability, traceability, accuracy, and flexibility

Standard and special friction welding machines of Thompson for all common friction welding applications

As a customer-focused brand, Thompson offers machines to friction weld even the most difficult components and material combinations. Special designs and sizes, such as double-spindle or vertical orientation machines are available on request.

Thompson friction welding machines can be configured as single or double ended designs and, feature both ID and OD in-cycle flash or upset removal systems, quick-change tooling, measurement and marking systems and, the intuitive Thompson dedicated welder control software.

Value-added features for Thompson direct drive friction welding machine includes:

Thompson designed two and three jaw chucks

Self centring, easy to load chuck.

Flexible backstop options

Easy to use manual or automatic programmable solutions.

Unique flash removal solutions

Flexible two axis servo OD flash removal, optional dual tool turning, shear and internal diameter options.

Fully featured hydraulics

Developed in-house to offer optimum machine welding range and full flexibility/control throughout the process.

Global service and spares

Including remote support options for optimum ROI.

Hidden tie bars

Open architecture enabling easy load/un-load or the integration of automation.

Unique tooling solutions

Quick change, application specific and lightweight options.

Automatic lubrication system

Low maintenance oil lubrication system to roller rails, clamp slides and head.

Intuitive informative software

Easy to use control software offers full control throughout the weld cycle. Optional in-cycle TIR measurement with in-depth reporting/logging.

Wide range of rotary machines

Machines designed for friction welding a vast array of parts from small diameter components such as engine valves and electrical connectors to large API drill pipes and rods.

Different Machine Configurations

Machine Tonnage	Prefix No.	Configuration	Standard	Special
15T	Thompson 1	Double ended		✔
50T	Thompson 2			✔
60T	Thompson 3	Double ended	✔	✔
100T	Thompson 4			✔
125T	Thompson 5		✔	✔
150T	Thompson 6			✔
250T	Thompson 7			✔
300T	Thompson 8			✔
400T	Thompson 9			✔

Advanced Welding Solutions

Learn how friction welding technology from KUKA helps you improve performance, reduce waste, and increase product effectiveness.

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Sub-contract friction welding

Welding of a wide range of parts in a variety of dissimilarmaterials, process development advice, pre and post weld treatment, comprehensive process and welding reports.