Why are welds important in battery manufacturing?

Particular relevant features of battery cells are welds for the internal electrical contact. Failures of these welds are often the cause for battery defects in the field and scrap during production. Consequently, there is a strong need to evaluate all welds during manufacturing.

What is ultrasonic welding?

Ultrasonic welding is commonly used for the joining of the internal electrode battery materials, which are usually constructed of thin foils of aluminum and copper. The remaining joining requirements – including the connections inside the can, and external terminal tab connections – are well suited to resistance, microTIG, and laser welding.

What is laser welding & how does it work?

Laser welding enables joining of many materials and material combinations, can weld thick parts, and has no limitation on proximity of weld spots. There are two types of laser that provide solutions for battery applications: pulsed Nd:YAG and fiber. Both of these lasers offer different joining characteristics that can be selected as appropriate.

What are the materials joining requirements for battery manufacturing?

There are a number of materials joining requirements for battery manufacturing, depending on the specific type, size and capacity of the battery. Internal terminal connections, battery can and fill plug sealing, tab to terminal connections, and external electrical connections are a few key examples.

Why do we need batteries and battery packs?

Batteries and battery packs have become an integral part of everyday life, in response to the ever-increasing demand for portable electronic devices, cordless power tools, energy storage, and hybrid and EV cars.

Is micro-Tig a good welding material?

Micro-TIG offers excellent welding of copper, and so presents a good solution for buss bar welding that would require a brazing material for resistance welding or a large power laser welder. Both butt, fillet and lap welds are possible up to and beyond thickness of 0.02 in thick copper are routinely welded.