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Plastic Welding Processes
Plastic welding is the process of heating up two plastic parts and bonding them together by applying pressure. There are several different welding technologies that differ in their application of heat and pressure, but the basic steps are heat, apply pressure (force), and cool. The weld created between the parts is a strong molecular bond and depending on the welding technology, is hermetically sealed. Learn more about specific joining processes below.
Staking
Plastic staking is a method of joining components together using a molded stud or boss to mechanically retain a mating component. Heat is applied to the boss, softening it, and a forming tool is used to reshape the material into a cap or stake.
Technology Examples:
- nanoSTAKE
- InfraStake
- Ultrasonic Staking
- Hot-Air Staking
Hot-Plate Welding
Hot-plate welding is the process of welding two plastic parts together using a heated tooling plate. A weld rib or bead on each component is brought into contact with the hot plate. Heat conducts into the weld rib causing it to melt. The heated tool is then removed and the parts are pushed together until they bond to one another.
Technology Examples:
- Rapid Conductor
- Compact FUSION
Laser Plastic Welding
Laser welding uses a precise IR laser beam that is directed through a transmissive material and penetrated into an absorptive material. The two materials are held in tight contact with each other and the joint between them heats up and melts as energy from the laser is absorbed. The result is a clean weld with minimal flash.
Technology Examples:
- Extol configures laser welding machines around the application
Spin Welding
Spin welding is a method of joining plastic components together with surface friction concentrated in a circular weld joint. One part is spun relative to another and force is applied, causing the material to heat and melt. The spinning process stops and the parts continue to be pressed together while they bond together.
Technology Example:
- Vortex PRECEDENCE
IR Welding
IR welding is the non-contact welding process that joins two plastic parts together with IR energy. IR emitters heat a weld rib or bead on each component. The IR source is removed and the parts are pushed together until they are welded.
Technology Examples:
- InfraGuide
- Quartz IR
- Metal Foil IR
Through-Transmission IR Welding
Innovative through-transmission infrared welding in a compact package. This technology uses focused IR light energy to replace adhesives. Useful in both linear and spot welding applications.
Technology Examples:
- InfraWeld
Hybrid Vibration Welding
Two components are vibrated in shear against each other, generating heat from friction. Vibration stops and pressure is maintained while the components bond to one another. Hybrid vibration welding adds an IR preheat at the beginning of the cycle to soften the rib and reduce the amount of particulate flash generated from the vibration cycle.
Technology Examples:
- CEMAS Vibration Welders
Ultrasonic Welding
Ultrasonic welding uses high-frequency vibration to melt and weld plastic. A tool vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies and causes concentrated molecular vibration in the weld joint. The friction between the molecules heats and melts the plastic. Once the vibration is stopped, the tool maintains a holding pressure on the joint to create a bond.
Technology Examples:
- Dukane Ultrasonics
- Branson Ultrasonics
- Herrmann Ultrasonics
When to use hot-plate welding
When considering the common plastics joining methods for assembling a new product, in the mix of options should be hot-plate welding. This low-force method of heating and bonding plastic parts has been around a long time. Contemporary machinery and tooling provide users with exceptional control and consistent weld results.
Why is my plastic sticking during the staking process?
This question has been posed to me by many customers. I hear statements like, “The machine works great for a long time, and then we suddenly get all of this sticking and stringing.” This issue is somewhat common in most types of staking technologies and varies in severity among different thermoplastic materials.
Ultrasonic or Hot-Plate Welding? The Battle for Superiority in Medical Device Assembly
Welcome to our exploration into plastic welding for life science applications. As we embark on this journey, imagine yourself as a master chef, adeptly balancing the strengths and potential weaknesses – such as leak rate – of ultrasonic welding (USW) and hot-plate welding (HPW), much like harmonizing flavors in a gourmet dish. Each method brings unique strengths and challenges to the table, contributing to the final product’s quality. So, let’s dive into this adventure where strength and leak rate take center stage in the intricate world of plastic welding for life science applications.
How to design for plastic staking
Understanding the latest technologies and best practices is crucial for designers and engineers in the plastics industry. This article will overview plastic staking technologies, focusing on two cutting-edge methods: InfraStake and nanoSTAKE. You’ll learn about the similarities and differences between these methods and their respective advantages for different types of plastic applications. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to optimize your product design for plastic staking.
The Guide to Switch from Adhesive Bonding to Plastic Welding
In manufacturing and product assembly, choosing the proper joining method is critical to ensure the end product’s strength, durability, and efficiency. Adhesive bonding is a popular method for assembling plastic parts. But as product demand increases, the need for faster and more cost-effective joining methods arises. Plastic welding is a popular alternative to adhesive bonding that produces more durable, reliable, and cost-effective assemblies.
The 4 Reliable Methods for Controlling & Predicting Laser Weld Quality
Laser welding is a widely used method in plastic welding, particularly when precise and clean parts are required. But how can we be sure that the weld is of good quality? We utilize four reliable methods in our manufacturing process to ensure that we have achieved a high-quality laser weld. Through these methods, we can control and predict the quality of the weld, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
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