UV-Cure – UV Curing Systems for Industrial Printing Processes
Fast, space-saving, and reliable UV curing for modern printing presses: UV-Cure systems from DUO-Technik enable printed products that are ready for immediate further processing at high production speeds.
What is UV-Curing?
In UV curing, special inks, varnishes, or coatings are cured in a fraction of a second using ultraviolet light. Unlike conventional drying, no solvents evaporate during this process; instead, a photochemical reaction is triggered that immediately cross-links and solidifies the ink film.
The UV light used typically has a wavelength range of approximately 200 to 480 nm and provides the energy required for the curing process.
The result is a surface that can be processed immediately, offering high durability and consistent quality.
While traditional methods involve the removal of moisture, UV-Cure is achieved through photopolymerization, which is a chemical reaction triggered by light.
Why Use UV-Cure in Printing Presses?
In many printing processes, conventional drying methods reach their limits, especially at high press speeds, on coated surfaces, or on non-absorbent substrates. This is where UV curing offers decisive advantages.
UV systems cure inks and coatings not through evaporation, but through a photochemical reaction. As a result, curing occurs virtually instantly, directly within the machine. The result is printed products that can be processed immediately, reduced space requirements, and high process stability.
Typical applications include flexographic printing, digital printing, and industrial coating processes.
Advantages of UV-Cure Systems
- Instant curing without long drying sections
- High production speeds possible
- Excellent ink durability
- Compact design within the machine
- Particularly suitable for non-absorbent materials
- Reproducible and stable processes
UV-Cure from DUO-Technik
Duo-Technik integrates UV curing systems specifically into existing machine designs and production lines. The focus is on:
- Reliable integration
- Compact design
- Reliable power output
- Practical maintenance accessibility
The systems are tailored to the specific application, machine width, and production speed.
Technological Highlights
URS® Reflector Technology
Optimized reflector geometries increase UV output on the substrate and improve the system’s energy efficiency. The reflectors are designed for high durability and quick replacement.
UV Online Sensor
The integrated UV sensor enables continuous monitoring of radiation output directly within the process. This ensures that curing quality remains reproducible at all times and deviations are detected early.
Efficient Heat Management
Water cooling of the reflectors and housing ensures that the generated heat is effectively dissipated. This reduces the thermal load on the substrate and the machine and increases process stability.
FLC® Quick Lamp Change
The wireless lamp system allows for lamp replacement in just a few seconds and minimizes press downtime.
Scope of Services and Integration
- Lamp power up to 240 W/cm
- Total power up to 36 kW
- Lamp lengths up to over 2 m
- Compact design with low exhaust air requirements
This makes the systems suitable even for particularly demanding production environments.
Typical Applications for UV-Cure
UV-Cure Systems from DUO-Technik are used wherever inks and coatings need to be cured quickly, reliably, and in a space-saving manner.
Typical applications include:
- Flexographic printing on packaging
- Digital printing systems
- Coating applications
- Industrial coating processes
- NON-absorbent substrates such as films or coated materials