UV curing system uses high-power LEDs

Paul Boughton
Hamamatsu Photonics is launching the LC-L2 range of UV curing systems that features higher power UV LEDs compared with those in the company's established LC-L1. The LEDs are highly durable, and the use of Hamamatsu's heat dissipation technology ensures that a high-stability light output is maintained over the 20,000-hour LED lifetime.

The long lifetime of the LC-L2 LEDs significantly reduces the maintenance costs of operating a curing system and there is no requirement for optical alignment during the LED operating period. If space is an issue the LC-L2 cuts the required volume substantially compared to its LC-L1 predecessor. This is achieved via its modular design that incorporates all necessary drive circuits and makes the new device more cost-effective. The high-power LEDs are capable of a UV irradiation intensity of 7500mW/cm2 at a peak wavelength of 365nm. This is considerably higher than the intensity from the LC-L1 and conventional mercury-xenon lamp curing systems, such as the Hamamatsu LC8 series, which creates a wider range of curing possibilities.

When used for UV adhesive curing, the LC-L2 allows quick curing of various electronic and optical components in just a few seconds. This avoids thermal damage to the target object or peripheral parts that are vulnerable to heat. The LC-L2 system allows for RS-232C computer control or pre-set curing cycles for different electronic processes, which guarantees the best cure every time. The LC-L2 is also suitable for a wide range of spectroscopy and general UV applications requiring a high-quality, high-brightness UV light source.

For more information, visit www.hamamatsu.co.uk