Guide to UV Measurement
Applications
There are several ways to expose the object or substrate to the UV source. The actual production method used depends on several factors including:
- Size of the object and the handling equipment needed to move it
- Application method for the UV formulation
- Requirements and process conditions to produce quality product
- Production quantities
Production methods vary tremendously. The UV source(s) and/or substrate may either be stationary or moving.
In very general terms, the methods can be described as being:
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Linear -travel in which the product moves past a lamp. Examples would be systems using belts or conveyors or moving production lines like a web. In some cases, a UV source may move past a fixed substrate in a linear fashion (ink jet)
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Area Flood -The travel may be flat or complex and the motion may vary from highly complex (3D curing) to a static timed exposure (screen or plate making).
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Spot –This often involves small areas where the UV energy is often directed to the cure surface via liquid or fiber light guides
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Other - This category could include UV applications that do not fit into any of the general methods above. An example would be the use of UV for germicidal applications.
The actual method used to measure and monitor the UV during production will depend on the factors and production methods above.