8. Glossary

Plastic plates, sheets or film

In the field of plastics, thin materials are referred to as :

• films if less than 0.5 mm;

• sheets with thicknesses between 0.5 and 2.5 mm;

• plates for thicknesses over 2.5 mm.

Machine duty cycle

Ratio between operating time and ultrasonic start-up time (maximum power used during this period).

This is an important factor in determining the machine's suitability for welding on highly ductile materials, with large weld surfaces and/or very short cycle times.

Ultrasonic machine manufacturers don't use this factor in their sales literature. However, it is well known in the world of metal welding (TIG, MIG/MAG, SAEE)....