Continuous Welding of Thermoplastic Composites

Thermoplastic composites are increasingly adopted across a wide range of applications due to their high impact resistance and fracture toughness, rapid processing cycles, and potential for recyclability. A key advantage of these materials is their ability to be joined through thermoplastic welding, offering an efficient alternative to adhesive bonding or mechanical fastening. Welding is a fast, clean joining method that can be implemented in either static or continuous processes.

This AIM event will introduce the principles of continuous welding of thermoplastic composites, including the fundamental physical mechanisms required to achieve high mechanical performance and an overview of the most commonly used welding techniques. The session will explore the benefits and challenges associated with transitioning from static to continuous welding, with particular emphasis on implications for equipment design and process parameters.

Recent research examples from both industry and academia will be presented, highlighting the growing interest in continuous welding and its potential for future composite applications. In addition, the webinar will address key technical challenges currently under investigation and emerging trends in this field.

Presented by:
Romain G. Martin, PhD
R&D Project Manager
Hutchinson

This session builds on the previous webinar, “Introduction to Welding of Thermoplastic Composites”, available at: https://compositeskn.org/KPC/A323. Attendees will gain practical insight into how continuous welding technologies can enhance and accelerate the assembly of composite structures