RF Ovens

RF Ovens are first and foremost shielded chambers where the material to be heated is placed between the plates or electrodes.  The electrodes and the material form the output capacitor of the RF Generator.  Here, the material actually becomes the lossy dielectric in a resonant circuit.  This is where the material converts high-frequency energy supplied by the generator into "instantaneous" heating of the entire cross-section of the material.

The subtlety and complexity of a good applicator/oven design does not go unnoticed.  To be successful in fully engaging the product uniformly, each and every oven must match the product to the most efficient and effective electrode system.  Next, it must take into account the entry method of the product (such as the conveyor), and be designed for maximum compatibility of the mechanical structures and resident RF energy.

Finally, a Thermex application expert takes over and provides input based upon process knowledge as to what other conditions must be present for a successful end product such as, "does the process require ambient convection heat?  At what Level?  Does the cavity need to be humidified?  Does the level of humidification change as the product progresses through the oven?  Does the product require special support or handling?  Are there other process speed limitations?"  Once all of these points have been covered and designed into the oven, along with complete human interface considerations, only then does it qualify as a Thermex RF Oven/Applicator System.

For over 65 years Thermex Ovens have processed and continue to process an extraordinary variety of products including ceramics, textiles, engineered wood products, films, food products and many others.

Please check under RF applications for a list of products processed.  For assistance in selecting the appropriate system for your needs, please contact one of our Application Engineers.

Read more about our RF Conveyorized Drying System.