Long Term Stability of Laser Joined Plastic Metal Parts

Abstract

To join plastic to metal a laser based two-step laser process is described. The first process step is the laser micro structuring of the metal surface to create microstructures with undercut grooves. The subsequent transmission joining process allows a selective heating of arbitrary component geometries and the local control of the joining temperature. Both parts are brought into direct contact prior to welding. The plastic part is melted and expands into the microstructures through the external clamping pressure. The joining results due to micro cramping after setting. The long term stability of the joining is described.