Abstract: The research status of friction stir welding (FSW) of high melting point materials was introduced from the aspects of FSW tool design, microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of the joints, welding temperature distribution and residual stress and FSW assisted by hybrid heating sources.It indicates that the W-Re alloy and polycrystalline cubic boron nitride are suitable FSW tool materials.The FSW joints with high strength and fine microstructure can be produced when the proper tool geometry and welding parameters were used.For simulation of temperature distribution and residual stress in the FSW joints, physical models should be improved according to the real FSW process.The utilization of hybrid heating source is benefit to weld formation and tool life.