Weldable Hook and Loop Fasteners
When attaching a Hook and Loop Fastener to a flexible material, sometimes traditional methods such as sewing, pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA), and stapling just don’t work. For some manufacturers, a Weldable Backed Hook and Loop is the preferred option. Even though this process can be more involved than traditional PSA applications, it has many benefits.
Weldable adhesive provides a permanent, waterproof adhesion that is more durable than other attachment methods and extends the lifecycle of the finished product.
Reasons to use weldable adhesive:
- provides a stronger permanent bond (weldable adhesive is heat activated and permanently bonds to the substrate)
- provides a waterproof seal (sewing Hook and Loop perforates the substrate which eliminates any waterproof characteristics)
- quicker to apply (weldable Hook and Loop is applied by a machine which is more accurate and time effective than manual sewing)
- provides a longer lifecycle for the end product (sewing Hook and Loop modifies the fastener by piercing holes in it which the thread is then woven through. Over time, the thread can fray and break which results in the fastener being separated from the substrate)
How do you RF Weld (Heat Weld)?
Once the Weldable Fastener has been positioned correctly on the substrate, heat and pressure are applied to activate the adhesive which securely bonds the two materials together. This method is durable and suited for larger applications, for example:
- Tents / Shelters / Structures
- Banners / Billboards
- Tarps / Covers
- Seat Covers
- Insulation Blankets & Panels
- Inflatables
- and much more…
Halco’s Weldable Hook and Loop fasteners are currently being used by many manufacturers around the world, in all types of industries. A weldable adhesive is dry to the touch but activates when heat is applied through RF Welding.
When Welding Hook and Loop Tape, a couple of common methods include ‘Tack Bar Welding’ and ‘Wedge Bar Welding’.
- Double Bar – This method is used in RF welding to weld or “tack” both edges of the hook or loop at the same time, saving time and improving accuracy. Sealing bars are designed in such a way that there is no puckering of the hook and loop in between the edge welds.
Wedge Bar – This welding method involves a heated wedge tool which is applied between the hook and loop and the base material. This method is similar to hot air welding, however the quality of the bond is difficult to control because the material cannot be placed flat on the base surface, and is highly operator dependent. This method is also subject to ambient temperatures, which affects the consistency of the bond.
Not sure if weldable adhesive will work on your substrate? Contact us to learn more about this process. We are happy to discuss your project and the options available. Contact Us