DUO#DarkWave™ – Highly efficient infrared hot-air dryers with energy savings of up to 40%
Patented infrared–hot air technology with optimized medium-wave infrared radiation for maximum energy efficiency in industrial web printing processes.
Why DUO#DarkWave™ outperforms conventional emitters?
Many conventional infrared systems operate inefficiently because they emit energy at wavelengths that are barely absorbed by water-based inks. The DUO#DarkWave™ eliminates these losses. A specially developed radiation source concentrates the energy precisely within the optimal absorption range of water. The result is drastically accelerated evaporation with significantly reduced power consumption—a decisive advantage for your carbon footprint and the profitability of your production.
DUO#DarkWave™ Technology
The DUO#DarkWave™ uses a blackened ceramic emitter with a peak emission in the range of approximately 3.0 µm in the infrared spectrum. This infrared wavelength range allows for optimal absorption of infrared energy by water. This ensures that the infrared energy is utilized to the fullest extent without loss.
Unlike conventional infrared emitters, DarkWave™ emitters are not encased in quartz glass. This also eliminates absorption in infrared wavelengths greater than 4 µm.
The integrated system concept is unique: DarkWave™ generates both infrared radiation and process hot air from a single energy source. Conventional systems typically require two separate energy sources for this purpose. The result is a compact, highly energy-efficient drying system.
Benefits of DarkWave™
- Optimized wavelength for water-based inks: High absorption of radiant energy within the ink layer.
- Up to 30–40% potential energy savings: Reduced energy consumption due to an optimized radiation spectrum.
- Infrared and hot air from a single energy source: Simplified system architecture with lower overall energy demand.
- Uniform drying of CMYK colors:The four process colors dry at nearly identical rates.
- Designed for continuous web processes: Stable performance at high production speeds.
- Flexible integration: Suitable for new installations as well as retrofit projects.
System Integration of the DUO#DarkWave™ in Web Printing Lines
The compact design and integrated structure of the DUO#DarkWave™ enable seamless system integration into modern web printing presses. The system is specifically designed to meet the high demands of continuous processes:
- Positioning: Flexible integration between printing units or within existing drying sections.
- Retrofit compatibility: Ideal solution for energy-efficient modernization of existing systems without costly retrofitting.
- Seamless system integration: Full integration into the central machine control system for automated power adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUO#DarkWave™
When is DarkWave better than a conventional IR dryer?
Especially in high-speed web printing lines using water-based inks and in energy-intensive production environments.
Can DarkWave be retrofitted?
Yes. The system can be integrated into many existing web printing machines.
Why is the optimized wavelength important?
It increases absorption within the water content of the ink and therefore significantly improves energy efficiency.