text: The International Institute of Welding Technology IIW published the Guideline "Recommendations for the HFMI Treatment" in October 2016. An overview of higher frequency hammers (HFMI) is presented, and recommendations for the correct application of the method and quantitative measurements for quality assurance the guideline provides the basis for measurements of HFMI improved welded joints on the basis of all known stress calculation concepts.
  In numerous experiments at various institutes and universities an 80 to 100 percent increase of fatigue strength and a 5 – to 15-fold increase in weld-life could be demonstrated. The most extensive research project was from 2006 to 2009 "REFRESH – life extension of existing and new welded steel structures (P702). In this research project, the HiFIT device was developed and made ready for production. This report is available in book form at the FOSTA (Forschungsvereinigung Stahlanwendung e.V.) and can be ordered under the number . The book contains detailed scientific verifications and validations.