Learning Center
Explore our Learning Center to learn more about welding and assembly processes. Read blog posts filled with helpful tips and information about automation and plastics joining technologies. Or start with the Plastic Welding Processes section to get the basics.
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.
Extol Obtains FDA Registration to Offer Turnkey Manufacturing for 3D Printed Medical Devices
Michigan-based digital manufacturer, Extol, Inc., announces FDA registration for contract manufacturing of 3D printed medical devices. The FDA registration will allow Extol to expand its offerings for the life-sciences industry. It will immediately impact Extol’s capability to provide complete solutions for additive manufacturing of medical devices for the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) market.
Alternatives to Ultrasonic Welding
If you’re familiar with plastic welding, you’ve probably encountered ultrasonic welding. It’s the most well-known plastic welding technology. But just because it’s popular, doesn’t mean it is the best choice for every application. It has many benefits, but also some drawbacks. What do you do if ultrasonic welding isn’t your best option? And how do you know?
Extol Awarded as Finalist for Cool Parts Showcase by Additive Manufacturing Magazine
Extol has been awarded as a finalist for the Cool Parts Showcase by Additive Manufacturing Magazine for the Fited 3D printed scoliosis brace. The scoliosis brace is being developed by Fited and manufactured by Extol for mass customization.
Get low cost, strong, lightweight tooling faster with MJF 3D printing
We are always looking for innovative ways to solve customer challenges. Recently a customer came to us needing a creative solution for their application. We worked with them to develop a custom automation machine that capitalized on additive manufacturing. In this case, 3D printed tooling helped us produce cost-effective and easy-to-use equipment.
Introducing LaserLock™ Plastic Weld Tooling
Have you seen laser plastic welding applications that are tricky to tool? How do you make sure the parts align properly every time? We have a solution for you! Introducing LaserLock™ plastic weld tooling.
Ensure consistent, strong welds with Extol’s patent-pending LaserLock™ plastic weld tooling. LaserLock tooling repeatably locates and holds your plastic parts inside the laser welding machine, which is crucial for success. This solution makes process setup easy and allows for more flexibility in your part design.
4 Steps to Unlocking Innovation with 3D Printing
3D printing a single rapid prototype is now the accepted best practice for engineering and product development. But what if you want to take the next step to create even more value? How do you find and develop successful applications for functional prototypes and production?
As volumes increase to 10’s, 100’s, and 1000’s, the cost of 3D printing can become more difficult to justify. While it may take more effort, it also has the potential for a bigger payoff. Follow these 4 steps to unlock innovation and the full potential of 3D printing.
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