DUO#ModulDry™ NIR – Infrared Dryer and Heating System
NIR-based high-performance drying for maximum penetration depth, the fastest response times, and energy-efficient high-speed processes in sheetfed and web printing lines.
Why does the DUO#ModulDry™ NIR (near-infrared radiation) make the difference?
NIR radiation lies above the visible light spectrum and offers the highest energy density in the infrared spectrum. This allows for very high infrared power to be delivered within a very small area. As a result, NIR radiation is ideal for any application where high energy density is required in a confined space. Furthermore, due to its very short wavelength, NIR radiation has a very high penetration depth and is therefore also highly effective in heating processes.
Technical operating principle of the DUO#ModulDry™ NIR
The DUO#ModulDry™ NIR is based on the proven DUO#ModulDry™ (modular infrared cassette system), but is equipped with NIR emitters.
Each cassette can be controlled individually and directs the radiant energy precisely into the wet paint layer.
The system has a modular design and allows for flexible selection of wavelength, bandwidth, and cassette length.
The integrated air management system directs the cooling and process air through the emitter area and subsequently uses it as hot process air for moisture absorption. At the same time, the protective glass pane remains below approximately 150 °C, which reduces the risk of fire.
Advantages of the DUO#ModulDry™ NIR
- Extremely fast response time: NIR emitters react very quickly to changes in power—ideal for dynamic printing and heating processes
- High radiation penetration depth: Particularly effective for thicker ink or coating layers or for deep heating of materials
- Maximum infrared line power: Maximum energy in a minimal space
- Zone-specific power control: Each cassette can be individually controlled from 0–100%.
- Proven ModulDry cassette concept: Fast service and flexible configuration.
- Optimized air management: Efficient moisture removal and thermal stability.
Technical Specifications DUO#ModulDry™ NIR
Parameters | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Emitter Type | NIR (Near-Infrared) |
| Cassette Widths | ca. 150 mm or 90 mm |
| Emitters per Cassette | 4–5 (depending on the model) |
| Power Control | 0–100 % per cassette |
| Air Management | Integrated |
| Machine Integration | Sheet & Web |
| Options | DryControl, SmartControl, SafetyGuard |
(Details subject to project-specific design).
Industrial Applications of the DUO#ModulDry™ NIR
NIR systems are used in many different industries, for example:
- High-performance digital printing lines: Rapid ink curing at maximum web speeds.
- Special coating and finishing processes: Ideal for applications with high layer thicknesses that require deep drying.
- Printed electronics and battery manufacturing: Precise heating processes in high-tech production.
- PET Perform heating: Efficient thermoforming through controlled NIR radiation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DUO#ModulDry™ NIR
When is NIR better than short-wave IR?
Especially when space is limited and high performance is required
Is ModulDryNIR retrofittable?
Yes. Thanks to its modular cassette system, the technology is also suitable for retrofitting existing systems.
Can the NIR dryer be controlled?
Yes. Each cassette can be controlled individually and integrated into higher-level control systems.