Flexible bus bars are used in electric vehicles for power distribution. The purpose of these connectors is to compensate for possible tolerances in the high-voltage network of the vehicle.

Depending on the desired flexibility, flexible bus bars can be produced from stacks of thin copper foils or from thin, braided copper wire. Either way, the ends are welded over large areas—up to 1,000 square millimeters.

Strunk’s new three-phase resistance welding machine can weld the foil layers or compact the strands completely in one operation. These systems are characterized by optimal current distribution over large surface areas. Direct cooling of the components using water is unnecessary. This prevents oxidation of the connectors and eliminates the time-consuming drying of the finished components.

The system produces reliable connections at high speeds. As a result, the surfaces do not tarnish, so the function and service life of the connectors are not impaired.

Semiautomatic and fully automatic systems are available. Optional downstream punching and smoothing processes can be integrated to create the required surface quality.

Strunk Connect GmbH & Co. KG
www.strunk-connect.com