Welding Thin Industrial Fabrics

Our previous article covered Finding the Right Welding Parameters for your Industrial Fabric. In brief, the differences between brands, coatings, composition, textures, and environmental factors mean that each material and environment require a different combination of speed, temperature, and air flow to achieve a good weld. When welding a new material, we recommended consulting with the fabric manufacturer to obtain a product data brief. The information in the brief can help minimize the number of test welds needed to find the appropriate welding parameters.
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As with all materials, make sure to have numerous, clean samples on hand before beginning testing. Properly fasten each to the table or floor with tape or weights. A consistent plant environment (temperature, humidity, air movement) will produce better results. Make sure that the operator is trained on how to use the welding machine. If you’re using a Leister UNIPLAN, see our article Welding Industrial Fabrics with the UNIPLAN E.

​As a general rule when welding thinner material, parameter settings for temperature, speed, and air volume should be set low to start. Light materials tend to flutter when the air flow is too high, causing problems in the weld. High temperatures can cause melting and wrinkling. We recommend using a methodical approach: change only one variable at time and record each set of parameters onto the sample fabric to track the progress of achieving a successful and consistent weld quality. 

​Physical testing is the only way to determine if a weld is adequate. Perform test welds, recording the parameters, until a visually acceptable weld is achieved. If the weld is good, a peel test should reveal the scrim of the fabric. For details on testing welds, see our article How to: Thermoplastic Membrane Test Welds.

Have questions? Give your Technical Sales Representative a call.