On the experimental investigation of high-frequency dielectric sealing of PVC

This feasibility study deals with the investigation of welding Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) sheets of different formulations, using high dielectric frequency technique. The experimental work consisted of PVC formulation (rigid sheet), mold design (new products), experimental design to quantify the effect of process parameters, mechanical characterization (tensile, peel testing) of the weld area, and process optimization. Rigid PVC formulation was selected based on two primary mechanical properties, tear resistance and shear modulus. The weld was well achieved within the studied range of parameters, while the processing conditions were experimentally optimized. Finally, new office items were successfully produced as a result of the design of new molds combined with new process layout (sheets).