Laser welding of plastics - Process selection software

Lasers are now successfully applied in welding for the manufacture of plastic parts. They offer distinct advantages and performance capability that allow applications to be considered that were previously not possible with other plastics welding methods. High strength and high quality welds are possible together with rapid production rates when the methods are used appropriately. The range of techniques using lasers for welding plastics and synthetic textiles is reviewed, particularly with reference to the use of infrared absorbers to promote precise heating and weld generation. A software package is presented that allows an estimate to be made of the amount of absorber required given the material to be welded and the production requirements, and predicts the laser power and absorber dispensing equipment required for the application. In this process the software uses the laser absorption and heat flow characteristics in the plastics and absorber materials to make the required predictions. The results are discussed theoretically and compared with experimental observations.