Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Heat staking is a plastic joining method where a thermoplastic boss or stud is heated and re-formed to mechanically lock another component in place. Learn more about heat staking on our resources page.

There are many applications such as Heat Staking, Inserting, De-gating, Swagging, Sealing, Date Coding, Branding, and more. Visit our resources page to learn about these processes.

There is no difference. These phrases are used interchangeably. You may also see them referred to as a heat press, induction welding press, hot plate welder and various other terms.

Ultrasonic welding is a solid-state joining process that uses high-frequency mechanical vibration (typically ~20–40 kHz) plus light clamping force to bond materials without screws, adhesives, or added heat. Instead of melting parts with an external heater, the parts generate their own heat internally from friction at the interface when they’re vibrated together under pressure. Learn more about ultrasonic welding on our resources page.

If you are a new customer, we need your complete contact information.

• Name of person requesting quote
• Company Name
• Address
• Phone Number
• Email Address

Additionally, we need a sample of the part being processed, or a CAD file and other imagery that helps us understand the process you need applied to your part.

Thermal machines cost less

Thermal tooling usually costs less and lasts longer

Thermal assembly is very quiet compared to ultrasonic assembly (no mechanical vibration)

Thermal welds are 20% stronger

Inserting into filled material can be accomplished with less damage to the inserts with a thermal unit

Multiple stakes and inserts at different levels can be accomplished simultaneously with a thermal unit

Different sized inserts can be driven simultaneously with a thermal unit

Larger inserts or more inserts can be driven with one cycle of a thermal press than with an ultrasonic press

Thermal units work well on glass and mineral-filled resins

There is less damage or marking on the face of a molded part with a thermal unit

There is less mechanical force and therefore less stress on the part with a thermal unit

The thermal staking process is less likely to split the boss or damage other components

Heat staking provides a clean, corrosion proof, reliable, and vibration-resistant way to secure plastic components without adding metal fasteners or adhesives

Thermal machines have very low maintenance costs

Reported to have 10% to 20% stronger holding retention for stakes and inserts

There are much fewer material limitations with the thermal assembly process

We have run pull tests and found that there are many variables at stake when determining pull force. Material type, insert type and force amplitude all need to be factored.

We have run torque tests and found that there are many variables at stake when determining torque resistance. Material type, insert type and torque amplitude all need to be factored.

Here is a link to view our timer options: https://www.tomanthermosonics.com/timer-options/

The timer is easily accessible in the control box on the back of the press or a hole in the base of the machine.  A flat head screwdriver opens the box and the timer itself has simple finger knob to adjust.

The ram is 1.25” diameter and has a ¾-16 female thread.  Can be ordered with a male thread end.

There are many variables that determine the stroke speed of the ram. Flow controls can be added to the cylinder air input to adjust the speed.

Yes, we have a YouTube channel that shows machines in action. 

This varies depending on the time of year, production loads, supply chain, and other factors. It’s best to request a quote.

When it comes to integration into an automation line, we build the machine to required specs and generally leave it to the integrator/full automation company to add the machine to the line, but we can and have assisted with setting the machine up and fine tuning once the line is fully assembled.