UV Curing is a speed curing process in which high intensity ultraviolet (UV) light is used to create a photochemical reaction that instantly cures inks, coatings, adhesives, and other materials. A highly popular technology, UV light curing is used by manufacturers in a vast range of industries thanks to its extensive list of benefits such as cost efficiency, faster production, and increased safety.
In order to ensure a successful UV curing process, users must first select their UV curing system which will be used alongside their light curable material. There are a selection of different systems and materials to choose from which have been specifically designed to meet different objectives.
However, there are also a range of key accessories available which can be integrated into your existing equipment to optimise the UV curing process. In this post, we have outlined the key UV Curing accessories that we think you should invest in and the reasons why.
Light Guides:
Implementing a lightguide into your UV curing process is the most economical means for delivering high intensity UV light to adhesives, coatings, and other materials. They efficiently transmit ultraviolet and visible energy from a source mounted inside the chosen spot-curing unit to the curing area. Available in single and multi-legged configurations, the technology within the wands transmit the highest level of light intensity available and prevent degradation over time.
Additionally, lightguides have excellent cold light properties and transfer no infrared radiation. Their superior fibres for transmission in the UVA-light range are protected against individual fibre breakup which ensures longevity. Filter mount assemblies can also be used with lightguides to allow for hands-free curing.
Unsure how to determine which lightguide best suits your application requirements? Check out our post here.
Radiometers:
Radiometers are a highly useful tool as they allow users to monitor and record the light curing process. Firstly, a radiometer increases reliability as it confirms that the 
chosen light-curing system is delivering the correct light intensity and dosage levels required for successful UV curing. If the radiometer provides a low UV intensity measurement for example, then this signals that a piece of apparatus such as the bulb, lightguide or reflector must be replaced.
They can also be used to measure the transmission rates of wavelengths through the chosen substrate. Measuring the light intensity reaching the cure point below the substrate is a crucial step in ensuring an efficient curing process. Radiometers are also extremely important to ensure that users are sufficiently shielded from UV exposure as they measure the intensity of stray or reflected energy whilst in use.
Mounting Stands & Shields:
Mounting stands are predominately used to securely hold UV curing lamps or emitters in place when used in a bench top configuration. Lightweight and easy to use, mounting stands are available in kit formats which come with additional extras such as a pedestal and safety goggles.
They can also be paired with a light shield which will protect users from the visible UV light whilst still allowing full visibility of the part. Light shields are part of a flood lamp light-curing system that incorporate an optional shutter. Dymax’s range of shields are complete enclosures and they offer the operator full protection whilst working with the equipment.
Replacement Bulbs
The UV curing bulb is a crucial component in any light curing process. Choosing a high-quality bulb ensures that the material cures with maximum intensity and helps prevent this from degrading over time. Furthermore, this can lower operating costs and result in far fewer bulb changes. There is a selection of different bulbs available to suit specific UV curing systems and wattages, meaning there is something to suit all applications.
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Ellsworth Adhesives supply a wide range of UV Curing Materials, Equipment, and Accessories from leading manufacturer Dymax
If you have any technical questions regarding UV curing materials or equipment, our Glue Doctor is here to help. Simply fill out our enquiry form here.