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Chapter 2: Introduction to the 2000X aed Actuator
Features of the System
The 2000X aed Actuator is designed with full, built-in pneumatic controls, and mechanical con-
trols. Operation of the 2000X aed is controlled by inputs to the 2000X distance Power Supply.
The pneumatics covered in this manual refer to the remote box package sold by Branson. Some
customers may require custom controls.
The Carriage and Slide System
The 2000X aed Actuator’s carriage is driven by a double-acting air cylinder. It is mounted on a
linear ball-bearing slide. The slide system is based on eight sets of preloaded,
permanently
lubricated
bearings and provides consistent, precise alignment of the horn, smooth linear
motion, and long-term reliability.
The Pneumatic System
The pneumatic system included on the 2000X aed model is contained within the Actuator’s
sheet-metal enclosure and consists of solenoid valves, an air cylinder, and a pressure regulator
with an air pressure gauge. There is a pressure sensor in the actuator to allow the power supply
to read the regulated air pressure. The horn’s rate of descent is adjusted by the Downspeed con-
trol on the front panel of the Actuator. The rate of return is fixed. For information on setting the
Downspeed control, see
Section 2.4: Controls and Indicators
.
Dynamic Triggering and Follow-Through
Many welding applications require force to be built up on the part before ultrasonic energy is
activated. To achieve this, the Actuator contains a S-Beam load cell, located between the air cyl-
inder and the converter, which initiates (triggers) ultrasonics after a preset force is applied to the
part. Dynamic follow-through maintains a consistent force on the part during the weld collapse.
This system helps provide uniform weld quality.
The dynamic triggering and follow-through process operates as follows: upon activation of the
operating cycle, the solenoid valve delivers regulated air to the upper portion of the cylinder, and
exhausts air through the Downspeed control from the bottom of the cylinder, causing the horn
to advance and contact the workpiece. When the load cell measurement of the force on the part
indicates part contact, and the desired trigger force is reached, a signal is sent to the Power Sup-
ply, which then starts the weld cycle. At this time, the actuator locks into a cycle, timing begins,
and the palm buttons can be released. As melting of the plastic occurs, the load cell dynamic fol-
low through maintains consistent force on the part, ensuring smooth, efficient transmission of
ultrasonic energy into the part.
2.3 Features of the System
Listed below are many features of the Branson 2000X-series ultrasonic welding system included
in a 2000X aed Actuator and 2000X distance Power Supply.
•
Autotuning:
Branson Power Supply tuning ensures that the system is running at
peak efficiency.
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