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Investigation of the strength of ultrasonically welded sails

Edita Vujasinović (Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia)
Zeljka Janković (Amadeus M.A.J., Zagreb, Croatia)
Zvonko Dragčević (Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia)
Igor Petrunić (Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia)
Dubravko Rogale (Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia)

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology

ISSN: 0955-6222

Article publication date: 22 May 2007

620

Abstract

Purpose

Today when the newest high‐tech fibers and sophisticated material constructions are used for the production of sails, forming 3D sail shape from 2D sailcloth has still remained very primitive because classic sewing techniques are mostly used. Since, the clothing and technical textile industry has been recently using some of contemporary joining techniques (ultrasonic, thermal, high‐frequency) replacing classic sewing, this paper seeks to investigate the possibility of ultrasonic welding in the production of sails, and the strength of obtained bonds.

Design/methodology/approach

Concerning the aim, sails were made employing the classic and modern (ultrasonic) joining technique whereby bonding parameters such as amplitude and welding speed, geometry of anvil wheels were varied. Objective quality evaluation of the bond made in such a way, was performed in order to be more exact about its strength.

Findings

Based on the obtained results it has been concluded that ultrasonic welding may successfully replace the classic sewing of sails, selecting an anvil wheel with suitable engraving and optimal parameters of welding (speed and amplitude).

Practical implications

Selection of optimal welding parameters not only increases the sail's bond strength in comparison with classic seam, but also provides sail air impermeability, being one of the basic aerodynamic requirements for sail making.

Originality/value

This paper has presented the novel and successful approach in 3D sail shape forming from 2D sailcloth.

Keywords

Citation

Vujasinović, E., Janković, Z., Dragčević, Z., Petrunić, I. and Rogale, D. (2007), "Investigation of the strength of ultrasonically welded sails", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 19 No. 3/4, pp. 204-214. https://doi.org/10.1108/09556220710741678

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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