- BASF patented a channel-guided hot-gas welding process for thermoplastics, notably Ultramid Advanced (polyphthalamide, PPA).
- Tests on PPA specimens produced durable welded joints after about 10 seconds of heating.
- The process lowers operating temperatures and inert-gas and energy use, and permits larger nozzle-to-rib distances to reduce clogging and maintenance.
- Faster, thicker melt-layer formation helps compensate component warpage, supporting large or complex parts for eMobility and fuel-cell applications.
Patented welding concept
BASF patented a hot-gas welding process that guides process gas along welding ribs via channel-like tool structures instead of individual nozzle jets, yielding more uniform gas distribution and reduced heat loss.
Performance
On Ultramid Advanced (polyphthalamide, PPA) specimens the method produced durable welded joints after heating periods of about 10 seconds while achieving high weld-seam strength and a larger melt layer thickness for compensating component warpage.
Efficiency and reliability
The design permits lower gas temperatures and reduced inert-gas and energy consumption; it also allows larger nozzle-to-rib distances, lowering the risk of nozzle clogging by molten material and cutting maintenance needs.
Applications
The process is particularly relevant for thermoplastic components made from PPA used in eMobility and fuel-cell systems, where thermal, chemical and hydrolytic resistance and functional integration are important.
