by Bill Cawley, GENTEX Corporation Figure 1 Through Transmission Laser Welding of Plastics Figure 2 Globo Laser Head (Courtesy Leister Technologies) Figure 3 Radial Welding Fixture (Courtesy Leister Technologies) Figure 4 Masking System (Courtesy Leister Technologies) Figure … [Read more...] about Recent Advances in the Laser Welding of Plastics
Assembly
Questions about Ultrasonic Welding
by Ken Holt, Hermann Ultrasonics, Inc. What effects and influences will a glass reinforcement in a plastic have upon the ultrasonic welding process? This is an excellent question as these types of additives are common in semi-crystalline parts. Unfortunately, the question has two considerations that need to be contrasted and compared. Both positive and negative influences can … [Read more...] about Questions about Ultrasonic Welding
The InfraStake Process – Seeing the Light
by Scott Beute, Extol, Inc. The practice of forming a molded stud or boss in order to retain another component is nothing new. Long ago, engineers recognized the benefits of eliminating glue, screws, and other fasteners, and as a result, they developed several different methods of heat staking that have been around for quite some time. Against this backdrop, a nonconventional … [Read more...] about The InfraStake Process – Seeing the Light
All Vibration Welding Applications Are Not Created Equal
by Bill Heatherwick, Automotive Market Manager, Branson Ultrasonics Corporation I often hear the following questions about vibration welding: "What is the best application for vibration welding?" and "What material is best suited for the vibration welding process?" Taken at face value, these questions appear to be simple to answer; however, they are not. In order to begin to … [Read more...] about All Vibration Welding Applications Are Not Created Equal
Ultrasonic Welding – Which Frequency
by Tom Kirkland A little research reveals that ultrasonic plastic welding machines can be purchased in a variety of frequencies, including 15, 20, 27, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, or 70 KHz. As if this doesn't create enough confusion, even more frequencies most likely are available. If two potential suppliers recommend different frequencies, which one is providing the best information? … [Read more...] about Ultrasonic Welding – Which Frequency