Tool assembly used with friction stir welding

Abstract

A tool assembly which is particularly suitable for friction stir welding applications. The tool assembly includes a holder having an axis and one end adapted to be rotatably driven by a rotary drive mechanism about the holder axis. A tool having an axis is also provided and includes a tool tip at one end. A fastener detachably and coaxially secures the holder and tool together. This fastener includes a first part secured to the second end of the holder and a second part secured to the second end of the tool.

1 . The invention wherein one part of said fastener comprises a shank having a noncircular cross-sectional shape and the other part of said fastener comprises a bore having a cross-sectional shape complementary to said shank and wherein at least one of said fastener parts is magnetized. 
   
   
       2 . The invention wherein one part of said fastener comprises a shank having a noncircular cross-sectional shape and the other part of said fastener comprises a bore having a cross-sectional shape complementary to said shank and wherein at least one of said fastener parts is magnetized.