Joining technology Four innovations in connection technology

Related Vendors

Fronius International GmbH

Panacol-Elosol GmbH

Henkel AG & Co KGaA

EMIL OTTO Flux- u. Oberflächentechnik GmbH

FAULHABER Drive Systems

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Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

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From epoxy acrylate adhesive specifically for bonding flexible PV modules, to flux pastes for efficient soldering of nickel and brass pins, to sustainable adhesive and coating solutions for the railway industry—these are the innovations in connection technology.

Panacol has developed Vitralit UH 1411, a new UV adhesive specifically for the film lamination of organic (OPV) and perovskite-based (PSC) photovoltaic systems. The epoxy acrylate adhesive was specially designed for sealing and bonding flexible PV modules and can be cured after application using a combination of UV or visible light and heat. This allows for high adhesion even in potential shadow zones. The company's own LED devices from Dr. Hönle, such as the Powerline 820 HP AC IC, are particularly suitable for curing. The modules of the Powerline can be seamlessly lined up to completely irradiate the desired width. The intensity is adjustable and can be adapted to the speed range between 10-100%, ensuring consistent curing results. The LED Powerline 820 AC IC HP can be powered and controlled either via the optionally available LED powerdrive IC or an external power supply with customer-side interface control. In its cured state, the hybrid adhesive, due to its composition of epoxy resin and acrylate components, is both highly resistant to environmental and media influences as well as soft and flexible. The adhesive adheres to all common barrier films used in the production of flexible photovoltaic modules. The adhesive strength remains guaranteed even after high stress from temperature and humidity. Moreover, the adhesive is transparent and non-yellowing, ensuring optimal light absorption and a long lifespan for the PV modules.

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Flux pastes for efficient soldering of nickel and brass pins

THT (Through-Hole Technology)-based electronic assemblies with nickel or brass pins can be used in various applications and environments. This is especially true for areas with demanding environmental features, where the electrical and mechanical properties of the pin materials play a crucial role. However, these pins are difficult to wet, posing a challenge in the soldering process. Since nickel oxide is a very good insulator, nickel is challenging to process. Its insulating property acts as a barrier, making soldering significantly more difficult. Conventional fluxes often reach their limits here, which is why special fluxes are required. These must not only enable processing but also protect the nickel surface from oxidation during storage. Emil Otto has therefore developed fluxes that consist of a carboxylic acid complex. By immersing the pins in solder based on a carboxylic acid complex, not only is the oxide layer removed, but the pins are also protected from further contamination and surface changes.

Sustainable adhesive and coating solutions for the railway industry

In today's rail industry, the demands for performance, safety, and sustainability are constantly increasing. Elastic bonding and sealing remain one of the most important adhesive applications in the railway industry and directly influence the durability and safety of rail vehicles. For example, bonding and sealing various parts such as windows, panels, roofs, and walls require not only reliable mechanical performance but also compliance with industry standards and regulations regarding flame, smoke, and toxicity tests, as well as restrictions on the use of isocyanates. Additionally, structural bonding with adhesives plays a crucial role in the construction and maintenance of rail vehicles, as it reduces the dependence on mechanical bonding methods, welding, and riveting. By using adhesive bonds, manufacturers can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to achieving their sustainability goals. As a strategic development partner with an expert team, testing facilities, laboratories, and simulation capabilities, Henkel has collaborated with the industry's leading companies over the past decades to develop innovative solutions. The materials and processes in rail vehicle construction have fundamentally changed over the past decades. Manufacturers and suppliers must adapt to these changes. Using the Loctite and Teroson portfolio as an example, Henkel experts demonstrate how adhesive and coating solutions can meet the challenges of modern designs. Henkel is prepared for the changing market demands in the areas of environmental, health, and safety and offers products such as phthalate- and tin-free adhesives and coatings. These products reduce noise and vibrations over the entire lifespan of the vehicle and meet the requirements for flame, UV, and aging resistance for the construction and maintenance of rail vehicles.

Gap bridging up to 30% thanks to automatically regulated wire feed

Fronius is now offering its iWave and iWave Multiprocess Pro for robot and automation use. This versatile tool is now available in power classes 300i, 400i, and 500i, each as a DC or AC/DC version, and can be chosen either water or gas-cooled. Complemented by the dynamic wire feed TIG DynamicWire, the wire feed speed automatically adjusts to the current conditions during welding. The wire is always fed in the exact amount needed at that moment, allowing air gaps of up to 30%, based on material thickness, to be compensated for. Additionally, TIG DynamicWire assists in setting the optimal welding parameters. It is sufficient to define one parameter, such as the welding current. All other values are supplemented based on material-specific characteristics. The iWave Multiprocess Pro is the flexible and adaptable 2-in-1 welding solution with a selection of modular Welding Packages from Pulse, PMC, LSC, CMT, PMC AC to CMT AC—even for additive manufacturing, it has the perfect characteristic line ready.