| abstract |
In a process for joining workpieces (1) made of fusible material, in particular a thermoplastic material, a laser beam (19) is directed onto the site of the joint (24) between the worpieces, the energy density of the beam being such as to ensure fusion and intimate mixing of the material in the region of the joint due to absorption of energy. To ensure that all the available radiant energy is used to melt the material in the region of the joint (24), the workpiece is irradiated so as to ensure that all the energy is absorbed, exclusively through the volumes of the material of the workpieces. |