3. Ultrasonic process assistance

3.1 Benefits of ultrasound assistance

The intense conditions created by ultrasonic waves make it possible to act effectively to improve the performance of certain processes. This can be achieved through two main phenomena: the reduction of frictional forces and the creation of intense conditions.

• Reduced friction forces

  A flat metal surface actually has microscopic irregularities. During contact, the asperities of the two surfaces form instantaneous welds between them, with the peaks of one surface intercalating into the valleys of the other, and vice versa. Forces must be exerted to break these contacts, and this is expressed by friction. Ultrasonic vibration of one of these surfaces reduces the possibility...