Specifications

Guide to Selecting and Using Dymax UV Light-Curing Systems
M
M
A
A
X
X
I
I
M
M
I
I
Z
Z
I
I
N
N
G
G
U
U
V
V
L
L
I
I
G
G
H
H
T
T
-
-
C
C
U
U
R
R
I
I
N
N
G
G
L
L
A
A
M
M
P
P
P
P
E
E
R
R
F
F
O
O
R
R
M
M
A
A
N
N
C
C
E
E
There are three ways to maximize lamp performance:
1. Proper Set-Up – The first key to maximizing lamp
performance is proper set-up. Reference the operation
manual provided with each Dymax lamp for instructions on
proper set-up. After ignition, wait five (5) minutes before
use to allow the lamp to reach full intensity. Then, use the
following techniques to maximize intensity at the curing
location.
■ Spot-Cure Systems – Maximize curing intensity by
minimizing distance from the end of the lightguide to
the light-curable material, while still covering the curing
area. Positive airflow can prevent those vapors
commonly emitted during cure from condensing on the
end of a lightguide. Be aware that excessive bending,
clamping, or set-screw tightening can damage
lightguides. The minimum bend radii for standard
lightguide diameters are as follows:
■ 3-mm lightguides – 40-mm bend radius
■ 5-mm lightguides – 60-mm bend radius
■ 8-mm lightguides – 100-mm bend radius
■ Flood Lamps – Minimize distance from the bottom of
the flood housing to the light-curable material. Note
that distances 3" (76.2 mm) or more from the lamp
housing provide the most uniform intensity across the
curing area.
■ Focused-Beam Lamps – Place light-curable material
at the focal point of the focused-beam lamp for
maximum intensity. The focal distance for the Fusion
®
F300S is 2.1" (53.34 mm) below the lamp housing.
2. Optimizing Bulb Life – The intensity of light being emitted
from UV bulbs gradually decreases with usage (except in the
Fusion F300S). This degradation cannot be avoided, but it
can be minimized through proper operation.
The longest bulb life is obtained by simply using the lamp
continuously (not turning it off). The more often the lamp is
cycled on and off, the more quickly the bulb degrades. The
general rule of thumb is to leave the lamp on if it will be used
again within an hour.
Once ignited, do not turn the lamp off for at least five
minutes. Turning the lamp off before it has reached its
operating temperature can damage the bulb. In addition, do
not attempt to re-start a UV light-curing system until it has
been allowed to cool for five (5) minutes.
3. Proper Maintenance – As with all production equipment,
routine maintenance will optimize performance. In the case
of a spot lamp, keep the end of the lightguide clean and
replace it if it no longer transmits enough light (a lightguide
simulator is available from Dymax to help determine
lightguide transmission). See Lit#069 Lightguide Simulator
for more information on lightguide and bulb maintenance. In
the case of a flood lamp, the reflector and lamp base
(sockets that the bulb fit into) should be cleaned and/or
replaced as necessary. Please refer to the Operation
Manual for each light curing system for further guidance on
proper maintenance.
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