Emerson Automation Solutions introduced a benchtop version of its GLX brand series of welding lasers for manufacturers producing smaller and more delicate plastic parts for the medical and consumer electronics markets.
The company says the Branson GLX Micro Laser Welder uses advanced laser technology and the industry's lowest clamp force of 1 Newton to join parts, including those with embedded electronics and sensors.
The low clamp force produces precise and repeatable welds, according to the company, which it says gives manufacturers greater design freedom and increased throughput.
The laser advancement is related to a patented welding technology called Simultaneous Through-Transmission Infrared (STTIr) in which all lasers are fired simultaneously to heat, melt and bond the component parts along the entire weld surface in 0.5 to 5 seconds, depending on material and geometric complexity.
Emerson says STTlr eliminates the use of friction, which can generate flash and particulates, to achieve smooth and barely visible weld lines that can be incorporated into product designs.
"There is increasing demand for smaller and more intricate high-quality plastic components for the medical and consumer electronics markets," Priyank Kishor, Emerson's global product manager for Branson products, said in a press release. "By offering advanced welding performance and an unrivalled clamp force, the GLX Micro laser welder enables manufacturers to design and efficiently produce the highest quality products." The GLX Micro is cleanroom compatible with a stainless-steel design that requires no lubricants and a remote electrical cabinet that can power it from outside the production area.
The production data, including weld depth and clamp force, is available in a range of formats to support traceability.
For more information, go to www.Emerson.com/Branson.