Method for producing an integral join and automatic placement machine

A method for producing an integral join between a first joining partner and a second joining partner, the method comprising:

• providing a powder carrier to which a powder layer containing a metal powder is applied, by means of an automatic powder carrier feed;
• receiving the first joining partner by means of a placement tool of a placement machine;
• pressing the first joining partner onto the powder layer located on the powder carrier, so as to bond a powder layer portion to the first joining partner, by means of the placement tool;
• raising the first joining partner from the powder carrier together with the powder layer portion bonded to the first joining partner, by means of the placement tool;
• placing the first joining partner on the second joining partner, by means of the placement tool, such that the powder layer section extends continuously between the first joining partner and the second joining partner;
• and
• producing a sintered join between the first joining partner and the second joining partner by pressing the first joining partner and the second joining partner against one another such that the powder layer portion makes contact with both the first joining partner and the second joining partner, the powder layer portion being sintered as the first and second joining partners are being pressed against one another.