Case Studies

42T has partnered with a diverse range of clients to deliver innovative, practical solutions across multiple industries. Their expertise spans industrial baking systems, advanced medical devices, and remote agricultural technologies, bringing both technical insight and hands-on experience to every challenge.

Their most recent case study explores how 42T investigated the potential of radio frequency (RF) dielectric drying – a promising technology that enables faster, more targeted, and energy-efficient drying processes.

Rethinking drying for the printing and coating industry

The printing and coating industry is under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices. As manufacturers transition to water-based (aqueous) inks, conventional drying methods like hot air and infrared struggle to keep up. These methods are energy-intensive and can be unsuitable for heat-sensitive materials like plastic films. The result? Limited flexibility, higher costs, and unnecessary environmental impact.

42T stepped in to address these challenges head on.

The team designed and developed a custom RF electronics system and constructed a complete drying test rig to demonstrate the concept. They overcame significant challenges in both electronic and mechanical design, including:

• Developing a high-voltage amplifier with fast feedback for stability and control
• Designing precision mechanical components to ensure uniform, repeatable drying
• Integrating all components into a compact, demonstrator-ready test rig

In the setup, wet ink is applied to paper or plastic substrates. As the material passes between two RF plates, the RF energy selectively targets and heats the ink, rapidly evaporating moisture without affecting the underlying substrate.

“The drive to aqueous inks is laudable, but too often the elephant in the room is ignored: that drying aqueous inks is difficult. RF drying has the potential to provide a step-change in drying technology for this industry and I am excited to see where it goes from here.” - Peter Brown, Chief Commercial Officer, 42T

The demonstrator successfully dried:

• Boiling water – showcasing the raw power of RF dielectric heating
• Wet paper – demonstrating effectiveness on porous substrates
• Ink on acrylic – validating performance on non-porous, heat-sensitive materials

These outcomes confirm that RF drying is not only technically viable but also highly effective. The process is faster, more energy-efficient, and gentler on materials than conventional drying methods.

Want to see the RF drying demonstrator in action? Watch the testing video below: