A Quick Guide To Spin And Friction Welding Plastics

11 May 2017
 Categories: , Blog

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If your first instinct when a breakable item lives up to its name and well, breaks, is to reach for the wood or superglue, even though you know that the repair might not last for very long, it is a good idea to learn about welding plastic. Given that there are numerous techniques available and some of those techniques are particularly appropriate techniques for beginners, you are likely to benefit from the information shared below about two common and useful examples of plastic welding.  

Spin Welding

Spin welding is a common example of plastic welding that other methods occasionally incorporate into their use, such as friction welding. It produces heat from the rotation at the joint line, which creates that tight bond between the thermoplastic parts being used for the project and rotationally symmetric joints. Thermoplastic parts are plastic components that can revert to a state of liquid matter if allowed to reach a high enough temperature and rotationally symmetric joints are defined as a connecting area that maintains its appearance, shape, and size when it has been turned to less than a full rotation.        

The machine that is used to spin weld provides extensive pressure to the axle while applying significant pressure to its non-moving counterpart. Friction soon occurs, which results in adequate heat that permanently bonds the plastic items together.  

Friction Welding 

Friction welding is an example of spin welding and is commonly used when the second part being connected through welding is asymmetrical. Asymmetrical items, which can be defined as any item that is not identical or similar in size to other items that it works with or features, are often problematic when welding due to the discrepancies in size. In this instance, that difficulty is compensated for by the use of quick, sharp movements that produce the necessary friction to safely and permanently the two non-conforming pieces of plastic together. 

It is important to note that over-doing the rotations can damage the two items being connected. As a result, it is imperative to either choose a welding machine that features a precise timer or to visually watch the process and stop at the right time. While you might employ this method at home for everyday repairs, it also plays a vital role in the automotive and aviation fields. 

In conclusion, plastic welding is often an ideal choice when you need to repair or connect two or more lightweight items. Therefore, it is a good idea to become familiar with the two common techniques discussed above when you are determining which welding methods are the most appropriate for your existing skill set, available tools, and current needs.    

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