A far more efficient technique for joining applications

Laser plastic welding is a new process enabling to join almost all thermoplastics, even transparent ones.

In addition to higher process speeds, this new alternative solves every major drawbacks of the traditional plastic-joining techniques: No contact, vibration-free, clean, local and controlled temperature, high precision, …

Thanks to a perfect control of the laser power or the seam temperature, welds are perfectly homogeneous and the mechanical resistance is usually higher to those obtained with other processes, and even comparable with that of the base material.  

Principle

One of the joined parts is transparent to the laser wavelength but not necessarily to the eyes, the second part absorbs the laser energy in order to transform the laser light into heat. Therefore the absorption of the laser radiation only happens at the boundary so that no marking of the outer surfaces occurs. Relatively light clamping pressure is required, just enough to keep the parts stationary and ensure there is no gap. This leads to permanent melting of both materials when the joint has cooled, which is done in a matter of seconds, resulting in strong, hermetically sealed welds with minimal thermal and mechanical stress.

Performances

Depending on the required production rate, various laser powers can be chosen. Linear speeds up to 200mm/s can be achieved, with a very high tensile strentgh, and a large welding seam (1 to 5mm thick). Smaller welding seams can be obtained with our singlemode option. 

Laser beams usually have gaussian profiles, meaning a high power at the center of the beam, and a lower power around it. Lasea has developped a special optical system creating a "Flat-top" profile, thus preventing from inhomogeneous welds and avoiding the creation of air bubbles or fumes at the center, while keeping an efficient weld on the sides. 

Materials

Polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC), Polyamide (PA), Polystyrene (PS), Polyurethane (PU), Polyethylene (PE), Acrylic (PMMA), ABS, PBT, PET, SAN, PVC, ... Simply ask us.

Why choose laser technology?

- Contact free process (No tool wear)

- Minimal thermal stress on the joined parts

- Vibration-free process

- Clean process (no adhesive)

- No liquid or fume

- No consumables

- High level of process control

- Optically perfect welding seam

- High precision

- High tensile strength