Welding with light: laser-based processes provide high-speed, noncontact techniques for joining thermoplastic parts

摘要

Mention the word "1aser" in a manufacturing setting and most engineers immediately envision metal cutting, parts marking or welding applications. The thought of welding thermoplastics with laser energy is unthinkable and even downright laughable. Indeed, there's a widespread misnomer that lasers will damage or destroy plastic parts. However, new technology and new applications are making laser welding a serious alternative to more traditional plastic joining techniques, such as hot-plate welding, ultrasonic welding and vibration welding.