Posted to News on 24th Sep 2013, 14:19
Telsonic secure seat back assemblies for trim specialists
Ultrasonic technology continues to be the preferred method of welding and joining for an ever growing number of applications. The precision and cleanliness of the process means that it can be used on components where aesthetics are equally as important as the quality of the joint. These attributes are exemplified in the Telsonic system recently delivered to Coventry-based interior trim specialists KJ Ryan Limited, where the technology is used to assemble seat back components for a UK car manufacturer.
Configured as a compact bench top system, the machine incorporates dual AC450 actuators, powered by Telsonics' SG3510 / SE3512 generator and converter systems. The system is used to secure two ABS escutcheons, each with 3 pins, to the main seat back component. This is achieved using a pair of air-cooled mother / daughter sonotrodes, each with triple titanium tips.
The vehicles' main seat backboards are manufactured in both PVC and leather variants and, whilst the welding process needs to produce secure and consistent results, it is essential that the components remain free from marking. The component location tooling and pneumatically operated clamping mechanisms within the machine ensure both "A" surface integrity and repeatable positioning.
Now in full production, the semi-automatic machine operates on a 26-second cycle time, with the machine automatically switching the generator between the left-hand and right-hand sonotrodes during the cycle. The machine concept provides the optimum configuration for KJ Ryan, allowing manual load and unload, but at the same time ensuring consistency in the welding process for every cycle. The machine operator is protected by a fully interlocked rise and fall access door and the welding cycle is initiated automatically as soon as the door is closed.
Telsonic has developed a number of ultrasonic modules and systems specifically for the automotive sector. The range includes the AC actuator series, which deliver weld forces between 350N and 3000N. When coupled with Telsonics' SGM and DHG series generators, these units offer power options ranging from 1200W to 3000W with frequencies of 20, 30 and 35kHz. The flexibility of these units allows them to be matched for a wide variety of plastic joining applications. To learn more please visit www.telsonic.co.uk.
