UV Curing is a smart and efficient curing solution for manufacturers where high intensity ultraviolet light is used to initiate a
photochemical reaction for instant curing of coatings, adhesives, inks, and other materials. A minimum amount of energy is required to initiate the chemical reaction, and this is referred to as the activation energy for that particular reaction. UV cured coatings are typically 100% solids, meaning there is no waste, but water borne UV cured coatings are also available. The water is flashed off before curing.
Advantages of UV Curing
In recent years, UV curing technology has gained significant momentum in the manufacturing sector for many reasons. By incorporating this technology in their production process, manufacturers can enjoy numerous advantages such as enhanced quality, faster production, cost efficiency, and increased safety. There are many and diverse applications for UV curing, for example from printing to dentistry.
One of the most useful properties of UV curing is its rapid cure speed. This creates a positive ripple effect on factory production. As a result, there is a reduced labour cost for manufacturers. Moreover, reduced work in progress and shorter cycle times means better lead time for customers.
UV curing technology is also preferred because of its simplicity. This process doesn’t’ require racking and ovens. Compared to heat curing, the equipment and operating cost required for UV curing is less expensive. Additionally, there is no need for mixing because UV curing materials are single component. This eliminates the likelihood of issues with pot life and reduces waste.
Finally, UV curing is also an environmentally friendly technology that provides us a safe alternative to using harmful chemicals. As a result, potential health risk is minimised for production workers and manufacturers benefit from a reduced disposal and regulatory cost.
UV Curing Systems
During the selection of UV curing equipment, you must consider three main components. These include a conveyor system, application equipment, (usually roller coaters) and UV curing stations comprising lamps, reflectors and cooling system.
A&I Coatings personnel have been involved in UV cured coatings since the 1990s and are able to help with choice of application equipment.
Common Applications of A&I UV Curing Technology:
- Lining boards
- Prefinished flooring
- End grain balsa sealing
- Furniture
- Kitchens including laminate
- Plywood
- Compressed fibre cement
- Many other applications
A&I Coatings is a market leader in UV cured coatings throughout Australia. All coatings are manufactured here in Australia, and they are able to develop and adapt coatings for particular applications. Please contact us today to find out more about our UV cured coatings.
