Application of the 50 Ω Radio Frequency Technology in the Automotive Industry: Fast Bonding of Composite Materials: Rear Doors of the Citroen Zx and Citroen Xantia Cars

Abstract

In the field of plastic and composite materials the radio frequency dielectric heating is more and more used. Compared to traditional techniques such as conduction and convection heating, the radio frequency technology is interesting, because it allows fast heating of thick materials and heat insulation materials.

As bonding techniques are more and more integrated in production lines, the polymerization of glues must be realized in a very short time. The 50 use of the Ω radio frequency technology makes this heating process possible.

The authors describe the industrial application of this technology to the CITROEN ZX and CITROEN XANTIA cars. Steps involved in implementing this industrial process (laboratory - pilot -industrial equipment) are presented and analysis the technical and economic results of this application.