Estimating contour laser transmission welding start-up conditions using a novel non-contact method

Abstract

This study presents a simple technique that can be used to estimate the power and speed required for optimal contour laser transmission welding as a function of material, part and laser characteristics. The technique involves rapidly scanning across a pair of laser transparent and absorbent parts in close proximity using a range of scan speeds and powers. The power and scan speed required to initiate visual degradation in the absorbent part are closely related to the conditions required for maximum shear strength. The technique has been tested successfully on four different polymers over a range of part thicknesses and carbon black levels.