Staking is when you connect two components by creating an interference fit. One of the workpieces has a hole and the other workpiece has an undersized boss that fits inside the hole.
A staking punch is used to expand the workpiece’s boss radially and to compress it axially. This forms an interference fit between the workpieces to create a permanent joint.
What, then, makes heat staking different from regular staking?
What is heat staking?
Heat staking, also known as thermoplastic staking, involves the same process as staking. But heat staking doesn’t use cold forming as regular staking does. Instead, it uses heat to deform the plastic boss or stud of the workpiece to fit it into the hole of the second workpiece.
Heat staking preheats the stud using induction. The stud is pressed to the hole in a plastic part by positioning the induction coil over the hole. The insert is held in the coil for a short period of time until the right temperature is achieved.
After the stud has reached the right temperature, it’s pressed into the plastic. A narrow piece of the plastic melts and flows into the knurls of the insert. Once the plastic re-solidifies, it completes the assembly.
What are the benefits of induction for heat staking?
Induction heating offers many different benefits when it comes to heat staking that can’t be achieved with other types of staking. Here are just a few of those benefits:
- Efficient heating. Induction is a highly efficient heating method because it offers an instant on/off heating.
- Ability for repetition. Induction heating allows you to count on the same result every time for each assembly, which makes it great for repetitive staking.
- Easy integration. Induction allows for easy system integration because you can place the heat station at a distance from the power supply. The induction heating can also be integrated into manufacturing controls.
Looking for an induction melting furnace for your business?
Approximately 50% of the world’s steel is used for infrastructure and buildings while 13% is used for automobiles. No matter what you’re using your steel for, you need an induction melting furnace to help get the job done.
Amelt offers a variety of induction melting furnaces and induction heating equipment so you can find everything you need in one place. Whether you’re looking for refurbished equipment or spare parts, we’ve got your back. To learn more about our services and parts for sale, contact Amelt today.