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NJC Successfully Demonstrates Friction Stir Welding on USMC EFV for Critical Weld Joints

For Immediate Release: May 20, 2009

The Navy Joining Center (NJC) is the Navy ManTech Center of Excellence dedicated to the

application of materials joining technology for Navy weapon system affordability. On 8 April

2009 the NJC hosted representatives from manufacturer General Dynamics Amphibious and

Land Systems and the Marine Advanced Amphibious Assault Program at its facility in Columbus,

Ohio for an end of project demonstration. During this event NJC successfully showcased a fullscale

Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) aluminum hull structure welded with state‐of‐the‐art

friction stir welding (FSW) technology. This is the first such hull structure of its type to be

manufactured in this manner. This is a significant System Development Demonstration (SDD)

milestone for the EFV program because FSW delivers superior mechanical and ballistic

properties and maximum plate distortion control and provides much needed weight savings.

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy’s Office of Naval Research provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps’ technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 55 countries, 634 institutions of higher learning and nonprofit institutions, and more than 960 industry partners. ONR, through its commands, including headquarters, ONR Global and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., employs more than 3,800 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel.