Configurable laser welding that meets your needs
Are you tired of trying to fit your laser welding application into the constraints of one-size-fits-all laser welding machines? At Extol, we take a different approach. We design each laser welding solution around your application. That way, you get the optimum performance and cycle time for your needs.
The Laser Welding Process
Laser welding uses a precise IR laser beam that is transmitted through a transmissive material and absorbed by 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.
Clamp
The two parts are clamped together with the IR transparent material on top and the absorbing material on the bottom.
Heat
The laser is transmitted through the top component and absorbed by the lower component, heating and melting the joint.
Cool
The laser turns off and the clamping force is maintained to allow the joint to cool and solidify.
Application-driven laser welding solutions
Many laser welding applications need a special solution to optimize speed and performance. We custom-tailor each laser welding machine to the application. That means, that the machine can be as large or as small as you need it to be. It can apply force using whatever method you want. And it can use the laser technology that is best-suited for your parts.
Laser Welding Benefits
Clean weld
Laser welding can minimize or eliminate unwanted particulate and visually unacceptable flash by precisely applying the right amount of energy to the weld surface. Excess heat isn’t needed to generate strong, clean, and repeatable welds.
Fast
Extremely focused energy means the plastic is heated exceptionally fast. This translates to fast weld times.
Precise
Miniaturized part designs and closer proximity of internal components is possible with the control and accuracy of Extol’s laser plastic welding system. The energy goes exactly where it needs to on every part.
Laser Welding Technologies
Contour
Contour laser welding uses one continuous pass of the laser along the weld path with enough energy to melt and weld the parts. This works well for flat to flat weld joints.
Quasi-Simultaneous
Quasi-simultaneous laser welding uses many very fast passes along the weld path to simulate the laser energy being applied to the whole weld joint simultaneously. This works well in T-style weld joints to get consistent, simultaneous displacement in the weld joint.
Line Beam
Line beam laser welding uses optics to spread the laser energy into a curtain that is passed over the part like a wide paintbrush. This works well for small intricate parts and larger flat area welding.
Masking
Masking uses a similar line beam curtain laser, but with a precision-cut mask over the part to shield the areas that don't require laser energy. This works well for ultra-precise welding with weld ribs less than 0.7 mm wide.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your project and how we can help. Get your plastic assembly equipment and services done your way.