WeldRod Selection
Selecting the correct thermoplastic weldrod:
In order to perform a successful thermoplastic fusion weld it is imperative to determine which plastic you are working with. In most instances, only products of the same family can be fusion welded together successfully.
To determine the type and compatibility of the plastics you are working with:
Perform a burn test. Take a small piece of the base material plastic and expose it to an open flame. Extreme caution should be used as melted plastic is very hot and fumes / smoke can be toxic.
Be careful not to fully inhale fumes.Perform a short test weld, paying close attention to your surface preparation and welding temperatures.
Pull the test weld apart. If the weld rod remains fused to the base material after it is thoroughly cooled, you have a successful material match.
The following descriptions show specific material characteristics.
Thermoplastic Weld rod Characteristics:
ABS - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. Produces a black smoke, soot flakes and an acrid smell. Flame will not self-extinguish.
PE, HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE, PE100 - Polyethylene (all types). Produces no smoke. Material drips like a candle and smells of wax. Flame will not self-extinguish.
PP - Polypropylene. Produces no smoke. Material drips like a candle and smells of burnt oil. Flame will not self-extinguish.
PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride. Produces a black smoke and an acrid smell. Flame will self-extinguish. Avoid burning if possible (contains polyvinyl chloride, fumes are toxic).