A new Macrowave radio-frequency (RF) drying system provides greater efficiency than conventional web dryers and enables the high-speed drying of water-based patterned glue and coatings at line speeds previously reached only with solvent-based coatings, says the manufacturer. The dryer selectively heats only the coated portions on the web leaving the bound moisture in the substrate intact, thus preventing overdrying, discolorization, distortion and shrinkage. Capable of operating at web speeds of up to 1,500 ft/min, this system needs one-fifth to one-third of the floorspace required for hot-air and infrared dryers, permits lower web temperatures and provides up to 50% energy savings, says the company. — Radio Frequency Co., Inc., Millis, Mass.