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Engineering Plastic Welding & Joining Methods: Complete Guide
Welding Method Overview
Method | PEEK | POM | PPS | PEI | PA66 |
Ultrasonic | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Hot Plate | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Vibration | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Laser | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Solvent | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Note: Engineering plastics are solvent-resistant, making solvent welding impractical.
Method Details
Ultrasonic Welding (20-40 kHz)
High-frequency vibrations create frictional heat. Cycle time <3 seconds. Best for small-medium parts (<100mm weld). PEEK requires higher amplitude due to high melting point.
Hot Plate Welding
Heated plate melts both surfaces, then parts are pressed together. Plate temp: PEEK 380-420°C, POM 210-240°C. Best for large parts and structural assemblies. Weld strength: 80-95% of parent material.
Vibration Welding (100-240 Hz)
Parts rubbed under pressure until friction melts the joint. Best for large, irregular shapes. Produces flash that may need trimming.
Laser Welding (Through-Transmission)
Laser passes through transparent upper part, absorbed by lower part. No particulate contamination. Best for hermetic seals and medical devices. Requires one transparent and one absorbing part.
Weld Strength by Material
Material | Weld Strength (% of parent) |
PEEK | 80-90% |
POM | 85-95% |
PEI | 80-90% |
PA66 | 75-85% |
PPS GF40 | 60-70% (fiber disruption) |
Design Guidelines
1. Both parts must be same material and grade
2. Dry PA66 before welding (moisture causes voids)
3. Minimum 2mm wall thickness at joint
4. Glass-filled grades have lower weld strength
5. Consider custom machining for integrated designs
FAQ
Q1: Can PEEK be welded?
Yes — ultrasonic, hot plate, vibration, laser. Higher energy needed. 80-90% of parent strength.
Q2: Easiest plastic to weld?
POM — 85-95% of parent strength, lower energy due to lower melting point.
Q3: Can different plastics be welded together?
No — same material and grade required. Use adhesives or mechanical fastening for dissimilar materials.
Ready to source quality engineering plastics? Contact NAGOMER today for a free quote, or browse our PEEK sheets, POM rods, and ESD materials.
NAGOMER — Professional Engineering Plastics Solutions
www.nagomer.com | info@nagomer.com