Laser system welds clear-to-clear plastics without laser-absorbing additives

A laser welding system that allows clear-to-clear plastic welding without laser-absorbing additives has been introduced by Dukane Corp. (St. Charles, IL). The system incorporates a recently developed 2-micron laser with greatly increased absorption by clear polymers and enables highly controlled melting through the thickness of optically clear parts.

The new beam-delivery system integrates both a programmable multi-axes servo gantry and scan head, which are supported by proprietary LaserLinQ software that harmonizes the action of both components moving the beam. This ensures precise and controllable beam delivery when welding mid-size and large components.

LaserLinQ also allows users to break complex weld patterns into separate geometric segments and to modify each segment independently. An integrated CCTV camera enables a live weld preview on the HMI screen and the ability to directly monitor and record welding cycles for further analysis. All laser enclosures are Class I CDRH certified and are fitted with laser-safe glass viewing windows.

The Dukane flexible welding system allows rapid changeover of a variety of specialized tooling cassettes. The tools, as a standard feature, incorporate binary tool ID recognition for automatic weld recipe recall. They support multi-cavity function, multiple feature detection, vision systems and independent clamping systems to compensate for part variations.

Manufacturers from various industries including medical, electronics and appliances can benefit from this clear-to-clear laser welding solution, said Dukane.