Selecting The Right LED/UV Curing System: A Comprehensive Approach
Light curing is a rapid curing technique that involves the use of high-intensity ultraviolet (UV) light to cause a photochemical reaction that instantly cures inks, coatings, adhesives, and other materials. This technology is highly popular among manufacturers across different industries due to its cost efficiency, faster production, and improved safety.
The typical light-curing system consists of a light-curable material (LCM), a dispensing mechanism, and a means of curing the LCM. In order for the process to work effectively, all of the components must be optimized to work together. Let’s explore the components that make up a light-curing system.
Light-Curable Materials
There are a variety of light-curable materials that manufacturers use to bond their components. These products range from epoxies, to silicones, to acrylate systems. Products can be one- or two-component and may cure with UV and/or visible light only or have additional curing mechanisms such as secondary heat or moisture curing.
Dispensing Equipment
To apply an LCM to a component or substrate surface, a dispensing system is required. Types of dispensers include hand-held, machine-mounted, robotic and rotary systems. Methods of application include manual or automated dispense from syringes, valves, or spray guns.
Light-Curing Equipment
In order to bond components together with an LCM, a light-curing source is required. There are “traditional” broad-spectrum systems that utilize bulbs for curing as well as “newer” LED systems that cure with LED arrays. Light-curing systems are available in a number of different configurations, the most popular being spot, flood, and conveyor-style systems.
Advantages of light-curing systems
• No bulbs
• No warm-up time required
• Lower energy consumption
• Consistent frequency and intensity
Features of light-curing systems
• Create high-speed automated assembly lines
• Integrate into existing assembly lines or use as stand-alone
• Create custom curing systems through our accessories line
• Traditional UV Bulb and LED curing systems available
• Fast cure times between 1-30 seconds
Typical Applications of light-curing systems
• Automotive
• Electronics
• Aerospace
• Defense
• Medical
Please view our range of LED/UV curing systems below
Ellsworth Adhesives is authorized distributor of adhesives, specialty chemicals, and dispensing equipment all over the world. We offer expert advice, valuable services, decades of experience, and a host of resources to ensure the total solution for our customers’ application needs. Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries.
