Future-proof joining technologies: SKZ supports industry with research and practical expertise
Thermal joining is a key component of modern plastics processing. Whether in the automotive industry, medical technology, or the packaging sector, the demands placed on joining processes are constantly increasing. Companies are increasingly faced with the challenge of making processes more efficient, integrating new materials, and ensuring the highest quality standards at the same time. The SKZ Plastics Center supports the industry with research, development, and practical training.
The Thermal Joining Group at the SKZ Plastics Center supports companies in the plastics industry with all questions relating to thermal joining technologies. (Photo: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ)
Würzburg institute drives forward innovative welding technologies for demanding plastic applications
“Industrial research is currently focusing in particular on quality assurance through non-destructive testing methods during the welding process and process optimization using artificial intelligence,” explains Dr. Gernot Hochleitner, head of the Thermal Joining Technologies group at SKZ. In addition, innovative approaches such as thermal direct joining for hybrid joints and the increased use of recycled materials are becoming increasingly important. The further development of two-stage laser welding is also positioning itself as a competitive technology to established infrared welding.
Companies are looking for robust yet simplified joining processes that ensure a high level of process reliability. At the same time, however, the requirements for the components themselves are increasing—for example, due to tight tolerance specifications, which make the welding process more difficult. New process approaches such as hybrid joining technology are also undergoing dynamic development. Thermal direct joining in particular shows great potential for joining metals and plastics, although questions regarding long-term behavior are currently still the subject of intensive research.
According to the SKZ, a key topic for the future is what is known as “de-joining” in the context of the circular economy. “When joining components, it is important to consider how they can be separated automatically at a later stage,” says Hochleitner. This opens up new possibilities for repair concepts and the single-type recycling of materials. Against the backdrop of legal requirements and increasing sustainability goals, this systemic approach is becoming increasingly relevant. It is crucial not to view welding in isolation, but to consider the entire life cycle of a product – from raw materials to manufacturing to end of life. Accordingly, the SKZ analyzes material behavior, temperature profiles, and process integration holistically.
With its modern laboratories, SKZ covers almost all common plastic welding processes. Companies receive individual advice, support in product and process development, and assistance in selecting suitable joining technologies. In addition, SKZ offers services such as weld seam evaluations. The aim is to provide practical and needs-oriented solutions with a clear application focus.
In addition, SKZ supports the initiation and implementation of research projects – from pre-competitive approaches to exclusive industrial projects, for example within the framework of the ZIM funding program. Companies' own research activities can be financed in part by public funds. Thanks to its comprehensive knowledge of current funding landscapes, SKZ provides targeted advice on promising project constellations.
The SKZ also offers a wide range of training courses on thermal joining. The courses are aimed at technical specialists, engineers, and scientists and combine theoretical principles with practical application. The ultrasonic welding course is particularly popular, in which participants work on four different systems, learn about machine parameters, and analyze results. In addition, customized in-house training courses are offered directly on site to address specific requirements in a practical manner.
Further information on the SKZ research group Thermal Joining Technologies
