Process Monitoring

Melt travel monitoring, also known as collapse control, is the most widely used monitoring technique for quasi-simultaneous welding. A weld rib built into the lower part is designed to melt and collapse as force is applied during the welding process. The distance of collapse can be precisely measured, ensuring that all geometric tolerances have been overcome and a consistent joint is created. The closed loop process will stop once a desired criteria has been met; either a set time, distance of collapse or when a fixed stop is reached.

A pyrometer can be used to measure the temperature signal from the weld joint. This information can be passed to the laser control to automatically adjust the laser output and attempt to compensate for parts without proper energy input in the joint. The temperature must stay within a specific enery envelope, too much energy and the plastic will degrade, too little and no weld is created.

Radiation emitted from burns or scorches ranges from visible to infrared. If radiation is detected within these wavelengths the burn detection module can distinguish them quite easily from the intended infrared radiation from the laser.

This method is well suited for applications with a strong contrast in color between the two parts, i.e. natural polymers welded to black polymers. The camera can detect inconsistencies in color of the joint, areas in the weld with gaps will appear lighter in color than areas with good bonding. The camera can also measure the consistency of the weld bead thickness for aesthetic quality purposes.