Emerson’s new laser welder uses complex geometrics to allow for automation of small plastic parts
The Branson GLX-1 laser welder has been unveiled by Emerson, who says it will offer users the flexibility to meet and growing demand for joining small, complex or delicate plastic components and assemblies. Integral automation controller makes installation simple and interfaces with production robotics. It is compatible with ISO-8 cleanroom environments due to its small footprint and modular design.
Catheters and wearables with microfluidic parts can be manufactured with the GLX-1 welder, which has servo-based actuation controls which allow for greater freedom. The join components have three-dimensional contours in small-part applications, which can be used in the medical market. Sensors can be manufactured for the electronics, automotive and appliance markets.
High-performance and blended polymers can be joined using this new welder, as well as components with critical or complex 3D joint geometrics or preassembled parts. It can do this whilst not risking any damage to the product through heat or vibrations. There is no flash or part marking on the finished product, giving parts a much-improved aesthetic appearance.
Emma Wood, global product manager for non-ultrasonics at Emerson said: “There is increasing demand for smaller and more intricate high-quality plastic components, often housing sensitive electronic components in a range of important markets.”
GLX-1 can also “un-weld” plastics in a safe and non-destructive manner. This encourages interest in closed-loop product recycling. This is most commonly used in medical devices and wearables. Sustainability and reducing waste initiatives can be achieved through this function, whilst also enabling reclamation and reuse of valuable internal components.
Wood added: “Delivering strong, clean joints and advanced connectivity features in an extremely compact package, the new GLX-1 Laser Welder enables manufacturers to design and efficiently produce the highest quality products.”
Customisation of password protection has 99 levels to ensure the maximum security possible, whilst also easily connecting with the plant network to meet industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) or any other communication requirements. It offers data interface gateway and fieldbus interface gateway compatibility. A USB port and an OPC-UA interface.
