Basics of LED-UV technology

Light-emitting diodes (LED for short) are semiconductors that emit light when electrical current flows.

LEDs generate monochromatic light in a certain wavelength. The wavelength depends on the semiconductor material and the doping. InGaN (indium gallium nitride) is used as a semiconductor for LEDs > 365 nm.

LEDs do not produce heat in the form of IR radiation. This makes LED efficient and the web stays cooler.

Our customers can choose between air-cooled and water-cooled systems. Water-cooled systems are suitable for clean rooms.

Wavelengths from 365 to 405 nm
Our UV-LED systems normally work with 365 nm, 385 nm, 395 nm and 405 nm. The formulation of the ink and varnish must be matched to the wavelength.

Areas of application
UV LEDs are used for curing inks, varnishes, coatings, silicones and UV adhesives. Also for finishing and coating on web substrates or 3D objects. The LED-UV devices are suitable for intermediate and final curing on narrow and wide webs.

Advantages of LED technology
LEDs do not emit IR radiation. Due to the low heat input to the substrate, temperature-sensitive materials can be used. Since LEDs do not require any warm-up time, they can be switched on and off without delay and are ready for use immediately. The typical LED lifespan is over 10,000 hours.

Applications:

  • Flexo printing
  • Digital printing
  • Inkjet
  • Roll-to-roll printing
  • Screen printing
  • Finishing