The ability to work with plastics for the development for durable, non-reactive types of parts and components has advanced significantly over the last three decades. This is partially due to the development of advanced options in polymers, thermoplastics and thermoset plastic that offer materials that are often superior to metals or alloys for specific types of applications.
However, in addition to having the right material to manufacturing the parts and components, there has been a challenge in developing the right fabrication and production process. One very effective option in joining two non-weldable materials, in other words, non-metals, is the use of ultrasonic welding services.
How It Works
The use of ultrasonic welding services allows two types of plastics or non-metals to be joined together through the use of pressure and ultrasonic waves. The area to be joined is placed between two plates that exert specific pressure to the area. Then, high-frequency sound waves are applied, which cause the molecular structure of the specific area of each of the pieces to be joined to vibrate.
This vibration builds up heat in the material in the precision location where the ultrasonic waves are directed. This heat, in turn, causes the material to melt and fuse together, creating a bonded area of the joint that is not just an attachment but a true blend of the material.
The process is very fast and takes just seconds. Additionally, there are no waste materials and, since no heat is applied, it tends to be a very energy efficient process that is cost effective for producing large volume orders of parts and components.
Applications
There are many different industries and applications that use ultrasonic welding services. It is ideal for medical devices and equipment, for clean room production and assembly as well as for large or small joints on any types of plastics.
It is also the fastening process of choice when two different non-metals are joined as precise control of the ultrasonic waves is possible to adjust for various melting points of materials.
