1.Features of UV LED light source
UVLED light sources have been developed relatively young compared to radiation curing, but traditional mercury lamp technology is well established. Traditionally, we regard mercury lamps as standard light sources, while LED light sources are more like adjustable formula light sources, which have a long industrial chain and are a system engineering.
2.Energy saving issues with UVLED
UVLEDs are generally considered to be more energy-efficient than mercury lamps, but this is a misconception. Although all the light emitted by UVLED is ultraviolet light, while only 30% of mercury lamps are ultraviolet light, the actual impact on energy consumption is the photoelectric conversion efficiency and effective light efficiency. The photoelectric conversion efficiency of UVLED is much lower, and its initiation efficiency to the initiator needs to be considered.
3.Work and power density parameters of UVLED light sources at different distances
The photoelectric conversion efficiency of UVLED light source varies at different wavelengths, with the efficiency of about 30% in the 365nm band and 60-70% in the 395nm band. The surplus electrical energy is converted into heat, so UVLED light sources usually need to be air-cooled or water-cooled.
4.Environmental issues of UVLED
Compared with mercury lamps, UVLED light sources do not produce ozone and secondary pollution, so they have advantages in terms of environmental protection. With the implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, de-mercuryization has become an industry trend.
5.Problems with cold light sources
Although UVLED is called a cold light source, it actually generates a huge amount of heat. The heat energy of the UVLED light source is dissipated through the heat dissipation system, so the temperature of the light emitting side of the light source is lower. However, the high-energy UV light emitted by UVLEDs can cause the substrate to heat up.
6.What kind of light source is needed for curing
Parameters such as wavelength, light intensity, and total work need to be considered during the curing process to achieve the curing effect. UVLED light sources and UV coatings should be studied as systems to find the best balance.
7.Thermal design
UVLED light sources are usually air-cooled or water-cooled. The heat dissipation system design needs to consider heat dissipation efficiency and uniformity to ensure the temperature stability of the LED chip.
8.Temperature control system
The temperature control system monitors the temperature of the lamp board in real time to ensure the stable operation of the equipment.
9.Initial investment costs and long-term operating costs
The performance of UVLED curing equipment affects the initial investment cost and long-term operating costs. High-performance equipment reduces operating costs, saves on electricity bills, and improves the cost-effectiveness of coatings.
10.The effect of the light source on the performance of the product
The light intensity and wavelength of the UVLED light source affect the curing effect, gloss, adhesion of the coating, and the physical properties of the substrate such as thermal deformation. Therefore, light source parameters and coating formulations need to be considered in order to achieve optimal product performance.