Thermoplastic Joining using Solar Energy Concentrator

Abstract

The harnessing of solar energy for processing thermoplastics using a solar concentrator is detailed. The application of this relatively new method is driven by manufacturing industry demands for simpler production methods and increased productivity when processing plastics and the need to achieve these goals in an environmentally friendly way. This work investigates the feasibility of effectively joining thermoplastics such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene using a solar energy concentrator facility. Research into the effect of variation of parameters such as standoff distance, weld time and processing temperature along with analysis of the tensile strength of the resultant bond is discussed and the advantages and limitations of the solar energy concentrator technique are assessed. This development work was undertaken to demonstrate the vast scope of applications of solar energy, particularly as an alternative joining process for the plastics processing industries.