Linear friction or vibration welding

Friction welding makes it possible to join two compatible pieces of thermofusible material by simple relative linear displacements. The principle therefore works for all materials, but in these practical sheets we'll confine ourselves to assembling thermoplastic parts.

Let's look for the relevant parameters, trying to explain the material environment of this welding process.

• You're familiar with thermoplastic welding, but not with linear friction welding.

• You have 3D injected parts and want to assemble them.

• Your parts are long or bulky; you can't weld them with ultrasound.

• You need to change technology, and vibration welding may be the answer.

With thermoplastics, and when all the right conditions are met, vibration welding produces highly resistant, airtight welds.

• How do we get there?

• Which machine to choose?

• What types of problems are encountered?

• So what parameters should you focus on?