Laser Plastic Welding
Laser welding process is epically used for the plastics. Lasers are
becoming increasingly popular for joining two components together because the
technique is fast, reliable and inexpensive. Transparent and Absorbent
Thermoplastics Laser welding relies on two types of polymers, transparent or
absorbent. Most thermoplastics in their natural state are transparent at
typical laser wavelengths. Additives, such as carbon, in the plastic change the
properties so that they become absorbent. The absorbing surface converts the
laser energy into heat. In the transmission laser welding technique, a material
transparent to the laser wavelength lies on top of an absorbent material. A
clamping tool presses together the parts to be joined. The laser beam
penetrates through the transparent component with minor energy loss and melts
the surface of the absorbing material. Heat transfers through conduction to
plasticize the adjacent surface of the transparent material. This process is
precisely controlled and continuously monitored during laser welding to ensure
a repeatable quality weld. After re solidification, the two parts at the joint
have been reliably and cohesively bonded. A defined pressure joins the
materials together during the laser welding process. It is therefore essential
that the technology works with complete reliability. Uniform clamping is vital
for high process quality. Pressing the parts together is crucial for effective
thermal transfer.Advantages of laser welding
- No particulate is generated
- Vibration-free process
- Hermetic seals are achievable
- No wear on the tooling
- Optically perfect weld joint
area
- High-precision
- Simple joint geometry
Third Year (IM-079)
Director M&MR (SME-NED)
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