Thu, 15 October, 2026
We are pleased to announce that our ESAB SuperstirTM system is now back in operation at TWI Cambridge following a comprehensive control system upgrade.
The friction stir welding (FSW) system, which was originally commissioned at TWI Cambridge in 2001, has now been recommissioned and returned to full operational capability following a major control system upgrade.
Key highlights of the upgrade include:
- A brand-new Siemens Sinumerik CNC system, Siemens Sinamics drives, and a new control cabinet
- Real-time monitoring: Dual cameras on each welding head allow operators to view welding live, replay processes, and share insights directly with our members on their projects
- Complex geometry welding: Integrated offline programming via our inhouse CAD/CAM software enables us to programme and weld on the Siemens control system to manufacture complex geometries with greater precision than ever before
The SuperstirTM system is one of the earliest purpose-built commercial FSW machines in the world, having supported decades of cutting-edge R&D and specialist low-volume production.
The recent refurbishment replaced the obsolete CNC system with modern control architecture, extending the life of this unique research asset and significantly enhancing its usability, diagnostics and data capture capabilities.
This recommissioning ensures SuperStir™ is able to continue delivering high-value friction stir welding innovation, combining its proven mechanical platform with modern digital control and operator-focused software.
To find out more about the SuperstirTM system and how we can use it to support your FSW needs, please email contactus@twi.co.uk.