Company Capabilities
PED-Stuart Corporation uses a combination of classic techniques which are proven to produce the highest quality results with cutting edge technology to provide finishing which prolongs the life of the products. We specialize in radio frequency and thermal welding of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene. Contact Us for more information on how we can help you.
Radio Frequency Welding
Radio Frequency Welding (also known as High Frequency or Dielectric Welding) is a specialized process used to create strong, permanent bonds in certain plastics. It works only with materials that have the right molecular structure—typically polar thermoplastics such as vinyl (PVC) and polyurethane (PU)
During the process, high-frequency electromagnetic energy excites the plastic’s molecules, causing them to oscillate rapidly—about 27 million times per second. This molecular movement generates heat within the material itself. When combined with pressure, the layers of plastic soften and fuse together into one continuous piece.
The result is a clean, uniform seam that’s airtight, watertight, and extremely durable—without the need for adhesives, stitching, or extra chemicals.
This method produces airtight, watertight, and highly durable joints, making it ideal for dry bags, tents, identification holders, protective covers, and other flexible vinyl applications.
Commonly Used Materials:
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride / Vinyl) – the most widely used material for RF welding; flexible, durable, and available in clear or colored films.
PU (Polyurethane) – offers strong, flexible bonds; often used in medical and technical applications.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PETG – clear, strong plastics used in packaging and displays.
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) – flexible, soft material used in pouches and specialty covers.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) – a versatile material with high strength and elasticity.
Materials Not Suitable for RF Welding:
Non-polar plastics such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) generally cannot be welded with this method, since they don’t respond to radio frequency energy. These materials are instead sealed using thermal sealing or other methods.
Thermal Welding
Thermal Welding (also called Heat Welding) is a proven method for bonding plastic materials using a combination of controlled heat and pressure. When two layers of plastic are pressed together, the surfaces soften and fuse into a single solid piece. Once cooled, the seam becomes permanent, smooth, and highly durable—all without the need for glue, stitching, or additional fasteners.
Unlike Radio Frequency (RF) Welding, which is limited to certain plastics, thermal welding can be used with a broader range of thermoplastics, including PVC, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, and more. This versatility makes it ideal for creating strong, professional-looking seams across a wide variety of products.
Commonly Used Materials:
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride / Vinyl) – one of the most popular materials for flexible pouches, covers, and holders.
Polyurethane (PU) – flexible, strong, and resistant to wear.
Polyethylene (PE) – widely used for bags, liners, and protective covers.
Polypropylene (PP) – durable and resistant to chemicals, often used in packaging.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – clear, strong, and often used for films and laminates.
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) – soft and flexible, ideal for specialty pouches and protective products.
Die Cutting
Die cutting is a manufacturing process that uses a specialized tool called a die to cut, form, and shear materials into precise, repeatable shapes. It is a highly versatile method used in both industrial manufacturing and crafting for materials like paper, plastic, metal, and foam. The process can be compared to using a cookie cutter on an industrial scale.
How die cutting works
The basic process involves three steps:
Designing the die: A custom die is created based on the desired shape and specifications, either as a flat steel rule die or a cylindrical rotary die.
Cutting: A die-cutting machine presses the die into or through the material with enough force to cut the shape. Automated systems feed the material into the machine.
Stripping: Any excess material, known as the matrix or skeleton, is removed from around the finished parts.
Slitting & Sheeting
A slitting and sheeting machine converts a large roll of material into smaller, narrower rolls (slitting) and/or cuts it into individual sheets (sheeting). The type of machine varies significantly depending on the material, speed, and precision required. They are used in a variety of industries, including printing, packaging, and textiles.
How slitting and sheeting machines work
A combination slitting and sheeting machine typically includes three main sections:
Unwind section: A large master or parent roll of material is mounted onto an unwind stand, where a tension control system ensures smooth and even material feeding.
Slitting section: The wide material is fed through a set of knives that cut it lengthwise into narrower strips. There are three main types of slitting methods, depending on the material:
Razor slitting: A simple method using razor blades, best for very thin, soft materials like plastic film and foil.
Shear slitting: A two-part knife system (male and female blades) cuts the material with a scissor-like action. This is ideal for heavier films, paper, and adhesive tapes.
Score or crush slitting: A circular knife presses and rolls against a hard anvil, used for thicker or tougher materials like non-wovens, cardboard, and foams.
Sheeting/rewinding section: After slitting, the material is either rewound onto smaller cores to create narrower rolls, or it is sent to a sheeting section, where a cross-cutting blade cuts it into individual sheets