German laser technology group TRUMPF has made further inroads into the plastics market iwth a new acquisition. The Ditzingen-based company has acquired the laser plastic welding and selective laser soldering activities of Fisba Optik.
Fisba Optik produces technologies in other sectors, including precision optics, optical systems, and metrology instruments.
TRUMPF said the acquisition allows it to make a wider range of laser system applications available to its customers. Its plan is to offer TRUMPF branded laser systems for laser plastic welding and laser soldering.
Laser welding of plastics involves gently heating a joint within a closely limited area to form high-strength joints. The parts are not exposed to vibration stress, so there is no abrasion.
Selective laser soldering is being increasingly used for electronic connections to sensitive components or to components already fitted into plastics housings.