Industrial processes are supposed to be fast and precise. However, there is an additional aspect to consider when processing sensitive, fleece-backed membranes like those used for venting housings: the process must be material-friendly as well. This combination of speed, precision, and protection poses a challenge. By combining fleece-backed high-performance membranes and torsional ultrasonic welding technology, Schreiner ProTech, a business unit of Schreiner Group, is now offering an innovative and powerful solution for these requirements.
These membranes are truly sensitive but they play a crucial role in protecting electronic housings. They prevent water ingress and provide effective protection against harmful fluids. However, especially in the case of fleece-backed membranes with high airflow rates self-adhesive versions used to be the only feasible solutions so far. Although they supported fast and easy installation there was still room for improvement in the assembly process of these high-quality pressure compensation seals.
Pioneering Work Through Collaboration
In a joint development project of Schreiner ProTech and MS Ultraschall Technologie GmbH an ultrasonic welding system has now been developed specifically for mechanically sensitive pressure compensation seals. This system offers significant benefits. It delivers precision, protection, and efficiency. It takes less than two seconds to precisely position a PCS. In addition, an innovative quick-change system for tools significantly reduces production costs.
Adrian Marggraf, product manager for pressure compensation seals at Schreiner ProTech, emphasizes the special nature of this collaborative development, “The basic machine is an MS Ultraschall development while the experts from Schreiner Group’s Technology and Innovation Management contributed their know-how in ultrasonic welding of membranes. This symbiosis has enabled an all-new total solution that almost amounts to a small revolution.”
Longitudinal Versus Torsional
While in longitudinal ultrasonic welding the energy is transmitted in a straight line the torsional method uses a rotary motion around the welding seam axis. This indirect energy induction makes the torsional method particularly gentle. Marggraf explains, “In the automotive sector, the components with sensitive electronics are becoming more and more compact. Torsional ultrasonic welding not only enables a precise and extremely stable connection but also reduces the required space. In many cases, just one high-performance membrane with a high airflow rate is necessary instead of several conventional PCS.”
A Smart Idea for Sensitive Application
The fully coordinated total package consisting of the material and the machine makes this solution so unique. It enables general industrial and automotive customers to not only enhance their competitiveness but to also benefit from sustainable efficiency gains. It is exactly these types of innovative solutions and collaborative projects that help satisfy the growing requirements in industrial manufacturing.
(Information)
Benefits at a Glance
Precision: Reliable and precise connection between PCS and component
Efficiency: Fast cycle times and flexible adjustment options
Protection: Avoidance of damage to sensitive membranes
Foto: Schreiner Group
