Development of method for welding of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene by electromagnetic induction

The analysis of scientific, technical and patent literature on polymer welding is carried out. A method has been developed for welding ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene using electromagnetic induction. Welding for experimental samples of the GUR-4150 brand from Celanese was carried out. The mode of welding by the method of magnetic induction is established, which ensures high strength of the welded seam. Providing material heating exclusively in the weld zone is the main advantage of the chosen method. And also a special mold of polytetrafluoroethylene was developed and manufactured, which does not allow the molten ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene sample to flow out and increases the contact pressure due to linear expansion. polytetrafluoroethylene was chosen as the mold due to its unique properties, namely: high heat resistance, low coefficient of friction and very low adhesion. Also, polytetrafluoroethylene is not subject to heating when exposed to magnetic induction. Thus, the most optimal mode for welding UHMWPE of the selected grade is welding at a temperature of 250 ° C and a heating time of 30 seconds at a pressure of 2.3 MPa. Tensile strength is more than 95% in this welding mode and the relative elongation at break is 66% of the value of the monolithic sample.