This 15 ton (30K lb max., 133 kN max.) forge force direct drive friction welder has a 2500 max. RPM rating and can weld 1.5 in. (38.1 mm) diameter max. solid or 2.0 in sq (1,290 mm sq) max. tubular area. This machine is designed to weld automotive torque converter covers typically made from low carbon steel materials, incorporating part load and unload automation.
The oldest form of rotary friction welding, the direct drive process continually adds energy using an electric motor driving the rotating component at a fixed RPM. The direct drive process accomplishes the same increase in energy through added cycle time instead of increased energy storage, allowing the parts to receive enough heat in the center of the parts to make a quality weld.