NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
(OP)
I have some product failures I am evaluating. The product consists of ultrasonically welded plastic parts. The current release criteria for these parts is a manual "tug" on the parts to determine whether or not the weld is holding. Neeless to say, this practice is quite flawed, and I'm looking for a more automated approach. I am encouraged by some of what I see about ultrasonics for sensing these potential flaws. Does anyone have experience using ultrasonics to detect polymer weld flaws, voids or weaknesses? Does anyone have a preferred supplier of such devices, or interpreting software?
I see that pass-through detection (tranceiver and receiver on opposite sides of workpiece) as a common practice. My parts are rather low clearance, so I wonder if a reflectance or echo detection (transeiver and receiver on same side of work piece) will give me a useable signal. Again, please share your experiences if they apply.
Thanks in advance.
ChemE, M.E. EIT
"The only constant in life is change." -Bruce Lee
I see that pass-through detection (tranceiver and receiver on opposite sides of workpiece) as a common practice. My parts are rather low clearance, so I wonder if a reflectance or echo detection (transeiver and receiver on same side of work piece) will give me a useable signal. Again, please share your experiences if they apply.
Thanks in advance.
ChemE, M.E. EIT
"The only constant in life is change." -Bruce Lee
ChemE, M.E. EIT
"The only constant in life is change." -Bruce Lee





RE: NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
I am just starting to look at buying a few ultrasonic welding machines. What brand of machine do you use, and are you happy with it's performance? It seems as thought there are a lot of companies that have similar machines.
Thanks.
RE: NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
ChemE, M.E. EIT
"The only constant in life is change." -Bruce Lee
RE: NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
I recommend you contact the following companies:
GE Inspection Technologies
http:
Sonoscan
http://www.sonoscan.com/what_applications.html
Regards,
Cory
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.
RE: NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
RE: NDE/NDT check of ultrasonic polymer weld
Weld flaws and voids can be detected with laser optical inspection systems. This technique has proven success especially if composite materials and/or joints are concerned.
You might have a look at www.dantec-ettemeyer.com and follow the link to the NDT product lines.
They have sold especially in automotive aircraft industry, where your problem is quite actual.
If you are interested in the "strength" of your welded joint then it might be a solution to measure the strain & stress distribution of the area of interest on your component. Dantec have also a product line for measuring this. (follow the strain & stress link on their www).
I am sure that they can provide help with your callenging task.
Regards
Jim