Connecting element and component connection and method for the production thereof

Method for the production of a component connection between a base layer (52, 72) and a top layer (54, 74), comprising the steps of:

• driving and rotating a connecting element (10, 30, 40, 58, 78) having a hollow-cylindrical shaft (12, 42, 76) into said top layer (54, 74) while applying an axial force, thereby causing a slug (62, 82) to be cut out of said top layer (54, 74) by an interior of said hollow-cylindrical shaft, said slug being entrained by said connecting element as it rotates;
• preventing deformation of said connecting element (10, 30, 40, 58, 78) when cutting said slug (62, 82) until said connecting element (10, 30, 40, 58, 78) has reached a surface of said base layer (52, 72);
• after said connecting element passes through said top layer, welding said slug (62, 82) to said base layer (52, 72) under a rotational speed of at least 2000 rpm and under an axial force which is greater than said axial force used for cutting said slug (62, 82), and at least partially pressing said connecting element (10, 30, 40, 58, 78) into said base layer (52, 72).