Advanced materials joining using a hybrid ultrasonic- electric resistance technique

The energy used during the joining process is a critical parameter in the case of joining new metallic materials as shape memory alloys. The use of ultrasonic welding process as a “cold” welding technology represents a valuable possibility to join these materials. However the resulting joint can be improved with hybrid techniques that locally use an additional form of welding energy, like electric resistance. The paper approaches the problem of hybrid welding of new materials like shape memory alloys (Cu, Fe and Ti-based) and biocompatible materials (TiAl6V4) in similar and dissimilar joints, potentially used in the fabrication of microsensors and for biomedical applications. Aspects related to the process parameters and the joints properties are presented with focus on the new hybrid welding technique.