Radio-frequency Welded Catheter Tubing

Coil Reinforced Tubing with Soft TipWhat is radio frequency welded catheter tubing?

Radio frequency (RF) thermal heating, sometimes called high-frequency welding, bonds the molecules in two polymers into a uniform weld that is smooth and seamless. Medical device applications often include thermoplastic bonding of soft tips on catheter shafts and thermal reflowing of catheter terminations. 

What are the advantages of RF-welded medical plastics?

RF welding of a catheter tube can create an impervious seal. 
  • Through RF welding, catheter tubing can be butt-welded together.
  • RF welding has tight heat controls which provide repeatability.

Which materials or medical catheter components typically require RF welding? 

  • Any tube which requires a soft tip bonded to a catheter shaft could use RF technology.
  • RF technology can be used for catheter tips that transition from a multi-lumen to a single lumen.
  • Radio frequency welding can be used to create a tip shape or a specific geometric shape. 

What is RF tipping?

RF welding, sometimes called high-frequency welding, can be applied to the formation of tips by bonding a softer tip to a more rigid catheter shaft. 

What ISO certification does Putnam Plastics have? 

Putnam’s leading-edge medical manufacturing facility is ISO 13485:2016 certified. Our dedicated clean room manufacturing space meets the growing demand of industry codes and regulatory guidelines.

Why is Putnam the best choice for radio-frequency welded catheter tubing and tipping? 

Putnam Plastics incorporates over 30 years of polymer processing technology with state-of-the-art RF equipment. This combination provides our customers with design options to meet industry requirements with fast speed to market and confidence in their medical device applications. 
For decades, Putnam has partnered with global medical device manufacturers to design and develop first-ever catheters.
Talk with one of our knowledgeable engineers or expert sales staff to find out how our expertise can work for you.


Why Choose Putnam?

  • 30 years experience across 36 countries
  • Innovative design and research expertise
  • In-house ISO certified production facilities
  • Single source integrated solution