The impact strength of butt welded vibration welds related to microstructure and welding history

Abstract

Abstract A study has been made of vibration butt welds between plaques of polypropylene. The quality of the welds, as determined by impact tests, has been examined as a function of the welding variables: pressure and vibration amplitude. In addition, the microstructure of the welds has also been examined, classified, and correlated with the welding variables and weld quality. Penetration as a function of time shows three distinct regimes and It is shown that the impact strength of the welds is independent of time once the third regime is reached. The time required to reach the third regime decreases as pressure or amplitude increases and is more sensitive to amplitude of vibration than to pressure. The highest quality welds were produced at low pressure and low amplitude with corresponding long times to reach regime three and exhibited a unique, readily identifiable microstructure.