by John Paul "J.P." Kurpiewski, Branson Ultrasonics Corporation What is a laser? In nature, light exists across a spectrum of wavelengths, ranging from very short (X-rays and gamma rays) to very long (radio waves). Humans only can see visible or "white light" of wavelengths from around 430-690 nanometers (nm).1 A laser beam is an amplified concentration of light energy at a … [Read more...] about Q&A: Laser Welding of Plastics
Assembly
Material Considerations in Ultrasonic Welding
by Tom Kirkland, tributek.biz Several years ago, a panicked business owner called asking for help figuring out why his ultrasonic welding operation had stopped working. I had talked with him on the phone a few times, but had never seen his operation. I committed half a day that week to troubleshooting for him. Arriving at his plant, I looked over his parts. They seemed to … [Read more...] about Material Considerations in Ultrasonic Welding
Balancing Automation with the “Right” Assembly Technology
by Dan Zaborowski, T.A. Systems In today's world of automation, there are many wonderful assembly technologies from which to choose. This is, of course, a good thing and something that benefits us all... until it comes time to pick an assembly technology for the next application. Suddenly, having so many technologies at the disposal of assembly personnel can seem overwhelming. … [Read more...] about Balancing Automation with the “Right” Assembly Technology
Advancements in the Plastics Joining Industry
by Jeffrey Frantz, Branson Ultrasonics Corporation The plastics joining industry constantly is changing as the consumer marketplace evolves. This evolution has been visible with the ever-changing demands of the automotive industry as the need to remove weight, which, in turn, improves gas mileage and increases the amount of plastic in an automobile. New applications drive … [Read more...] about Advancements in the Plastics Joining Industry
Role of Fixtures in Ultrasonic Plastic Welding
By Gary Clodfelter, Plastic Assembly Technologies, Inc. The use of CAD/CAM technology has greatly improved the manufacturing of contoured fixtures to support the part during ultrasonic assembly. Exact mirror replicas of the part can be created to provide excellent support to the part. Due to complex contours seen on many parts, it is recommended that the horn and fixture be … [Read more...] about Role of Fixtures in Ultrasonic Plastic Welding