Horns for ultrasonic welding are typically made from materials that have good acoustic properties and can withstand the high-frequency mechanical vibration generated by the ultrasonic welding process. Some of the most commonly used materials for making ultrasonic welding horns include:
- Titanium: Titanium is a lightweight and strong metal that has excellent acoustic properties, making it an ideal material for ultrasonic welding horns. It is also highly resistant to corrosion and has good thermal conductivity.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is another lightweight and strong metal that is commonly used for ultrasonic welding horns. It has good acoustic properties and is relatively inexpensive compared to titanium.
- Steel: Various types of steel, such as tool steel or stainless steel, can be used to make ultrasonic welding horns. Steel is strong and durable, making it suitable for high-volume production environments.
The choice of material for an ultrasonic welding horn will depend on the specific application and the requirements of the weld. Factors such as the thickness and type of material being welded, the desired strength and quality of the weld, and the frequency and amplitude of the ultrasonic vibration will all influence the choice of material for the horn.
When part marking is a concern, a horn can be chrome plated. This smoother finish reduces wear marks during welding.
Horn material is often determined based on the application. Trinetics Group provides a free application analysis for any plastic welding project.
