Knowledge About UV Ink And UV Lamp
UV ink and UV lamps are widely used in the printing industry. The advancement and functional improvements of inkjet printing technology have significantly enhanced printing results. Compared to traditional water-based and low-solvent inks, UV ink has clear advantages in color performance, three-dimensional effects, and material compatibility. UV lamps, as an indispensable device in the curing process of UV ink, also play a critical role in influencing printing quality and efficiency.
Properties and Applications of UV Ink
UV ink is a special type of ink that solidifies under ultraviolet (UV) light. Its main characteristic is its fast curing speed and excellent environmental performance. Unlike traditional inks, UV ink rapidly cures when exposed to UV light from UV lamps during printing, eliminating the need for heat drying. This curing method reduces the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the drying process of solvent-based inks, thus minimizing environmental pollution. UV ink is 100% VOC-free, generating almost no harmful gases during printing, which meets the high environmental standards of modern industries.
UV ink also performs exceptionally well in printing results. It has high color saturation and strong image three-dimensionality, delivering more realistic visual effects. UV ink exhibits excellent adhesion and is compatible with various materials, including glass, metal, plastic, and wood, further expanding its range of applications. UV ink typically requires post-processing equipment, with main methods including spray paint catalytic oxidation and cooling recovery, which enhance print durability and resistance.
Working Principles and Selection of UV Lamps
UV lamps are the core equipment in the UV ink curing process. They emit ultraviolet light that triggers a chemical reaction in the photoinitiators of the UV ink, leading to its rapid curing. UV lamps typically operate in two wavelength ranges: high-wave and low-wave. High-wave UV light meets the curing needs of some special inks but may only cure the surface of the ink, resulting in insufficient adhesion. In contrast, low-wave UV light penetrates deeper into the ink, ensuring better long-term print durability. It is important to note that low-wave UV lamps are generally more expensive but provide superior curing effects.
The power of UV lamps is another key factor in the selection process. UV lamp power is typically measured in watts (W). Common UV lamps on the market consist of multiple light bulbs, with powers ranging from several tens of watts to several hundred watts. A lamp with excessive power can provide stronger UV exposure but may lead to an overly large exposure area, increasing UV attenuation and affecting the curing effect. When choosing a UV lamp, it is essential to match the power with the actual printing needs, ensuring the equipment is equipped with effective water or air cooling systems to prevent overheating.
The combination of UV ink and UV lamps enhances printing efficiency. BWuvink’s UV ink rapidly cures under the UV light emitted by UV lamps. By selecting UV lamps that match the characteristics of UV ink in terms of wavelength and power, and by choosing the right UV ink and UV lamp equipment based on specific needs, the printing process can be optimized, fully utilizing the synergy between the two.
