Hot-plate welding is one of the simplest and most versatile methods for joining two plastic parts. The technology can weld small parts or large ones, flat parts or contoured ones. It can weld one assembly at a time, or multiple assemblies simultaneously. In many cases, hot-plate welding works when other joining methods, such as ultrasonic welding and vibration welding, do not.
In the automotive industry, the technology is used to assemble headlights, taillights, ductwork, manifolds, batteries, fuel tanks, filter housings, and coolant and fluid reservoirs. Appliance manufacturers use hot-plate welding to assemble spray arms for dishwashers; agitators and balance rings for washing machines; brushes for vacuum cleaners; and reservoirs for steam irons. In the hardware industry, the technology is employed to weld window and door frames. Medical device manufacturers use hot-plate welding to assemble sharps containers and foot massagers. The technique is even used to make large assemblies, such as barrels, pallets and crates.