A Comparison Study on the Influence of Cutting Edge Hybrid Ultrasonic Thermal Technology versus Ultrasonic Cutting on Seatbelt Processing Quality

Abstract

Research conducted aimed to compare the hybrid ultrasonic-thermal cutting technology with the classic thermal cutting one. The experimental program was carried out on the ISIM designed hybrid equipment, operating at a frequency of 35 KHz, with a cutting geometry of the ultrasonic horn - sonotrode and the thermal anvil designed specifically for the task at hand; the first phase of the experimental program was developed on the thermal cutting module, the second one was performed on the US-thermal hybrid module, both modules being part of the hybrid cutting equipment designed and patented by ISIM Timisoara. The research performed in this present paper, intends to highlight the benefits of the hybrid cutting technology when compared to classical thermal cutting, in order to process two types of materials with different specifications and dimensions. After visually inspection cut materials have been then compared with automotive seatbelt quality standard IATF - International Automotive Task Force 16949. Experiments highlighted that hybrid ultrasonic-thermal cutting process has a significant influence on the quality of processed materials when compared to classic thermal cutting process, which in some cases makes the materials unsuitable for use in the automotive industry. The paper further presents two types of technology data sets suitable for 2 types of materials and up to automotive industry requirements.