"Ultrasonic welding at 40 kilohertz is particularly suited for smaller, precision plastics assembly applications requiring gentler action," adds Gourley. "Horns are typically about 50 percent smaller than at 20 kilohertz and have lower amplitude, which causes less stress on the parts being welded.
"With 15 kilohertz, most thermoplastics can be welded, especially those fabricated from high-performance engineering resins. This lower frequency also enables larger horn design, thus facilitating the welding of larger assemblies. Uniform amplitude across the horn increases weld integrity, ensuring superior results. There is also significantly less attenuation, allowing many softer plastics to be welded--at greater far field distances than with other frequencies."