Hello and welcome to this blog post in which we discuss the new Absorbing-to-Absorbing (ATA) technology introduced by LPKF [1].
Absorbing-to-Absorbing (ATA) Plastics Laser Welding Technology
Absorbing-to-Absorbing (ATA) technology breaks the traditional rule that laser welding requires one laser-transparent and one laser-absorbent part. It enables the direct welding of two laser-absorbing plastics by utilizing advanced laser power, fast-part clamping, and integrated thermography for perfectly controlled, high-strength 3D joints.
How the Processes Differ
Table 1 compares the traditional transmission laser welding technology with the new Absorbing-to-Absorbing laser welding technology.
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| Table 1: Comparison of transmission laser welding and Absorbing-to-Absorbing laser welding technology[1]. Figure 1 shows laser welded plastic plates (60x60x2mm) in the traditional transparent and absorbing plate configuration (left) and in the new Absorbing-to-Absorbing laser welding configuration (right).
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Why Choose ATA?
- No Color or Additive Restrictions: Traditional methods often fail with carbon-black pigments, flame retardants, or glass fibers in the top layer because these block the laser. ATA bypasses this by depositing energy directly at the contact zone.
- Enhanced Quality Control: Because both sides generate heat, the process demands extremely tight process monitoring. Systems with ATA integrate TherMoPro (online thermography) to continuously monitor the melt and ensure structural integrity.
- Electronics & Mobility: It is widely used for robust e-mobility components and electronic housings where both structural halves are dark, reinforced, or color-matched.
Thanks for reading & #findoutaboutplastics
Greetings,
Herwig
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