What is RF (Radio Frequency) Welding?

radio frequency welding

What is RF (Radio Frequency) Welding?

Radio frequency welding or (high frequency welding) is the process of bonding together materials through the use of electromagnetic energy. Two electrodes create an oscillating electric field that begins to shift and move polar molecules within the materials in order to orient themselves in accordance with the electromagnetic field. The movement of these molecules releases energy in the form of heat. When enough energy is applied, the molecules begin to melt and bond to one another. No external heat is applied. The weld is completed by applying pressure to the bonded area, ensuring a successful seal.

What Factors Contribute to a Good Weld?

Many factors affect the strength and seal quality in RF welding. Tooling layout, weld thickness, material thickness, and machine control are some of the most important factors in creating a good seal. The appeal of RF welding is in the completeness of the weld. Using this method can create very robust hermetic seals. Many welds are subject to pill tests, leak tests, and optical tests to determine that the correct conditions have been achieved.

What Materials Can Be RF Welded?

Some materials are more of a challenge to RF weld than others and may even require a special process. No matter the level of difficulty, Thistle, Inc. is confident in our abilities.

Why Use RF Welding?

There are several alternatives to RF welding including sewing, gluing, or using hot air. Why use RF welding?

RF Welding vs. Sewing

RF welding provides a consistent air tight seal unlike sewing. When sewn seams are stressed, the thread takes the pressure and could break. RF welds evenly distribute stresses throughout the material providing a much stronger seam while preventing any air, moisture, or debris getting in.

RF Welding vs. Gluing/Adhesives

Gluing can provide an air tight solution, but gluing takes much longer than RF welding and often uses hazardous solvents that are harmful to the environment. Glued seams are also subject to failure once the adhesive has worn out.

RF Welding vs. Hot Air

Hot air is a method that applies heat to the outside of the material to melt it and create a bond. This method is only effective up to certain thicknesses. Materials that are too thick will not bond in the middle as the core will struggle to melt, while the outside layers are over heated or burned. RF welding heats from the inside out and is the best method for forming air tight seams.

What Separates Thistle, Inc.

At Thistle, Inc. we design and create all of our own dies and tooling in-house. Our team works with each of our customers to assist in the selection of materials and thickness to achieve optimum results. With over 35 years in the business, we have developed strong relationships with our suppliers to offer unique materials options. Our attention to quality and precision during production allows us to provide our customers with top quality products, made in the USA.