New microwave UV curing system

Microelectronics International

ISSN: 1356-5362

Article publication date: 1 August 1999

78

Keywords

Citation

(1999), "New microwave UV curing system", Microelectronics International, Vol. 16 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/mi.1999.21816bad.008

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 1999, MCB UP Limited


New microwave UV curing system

New microwave UV curing system

Keywords ACT Spectral, Curing, UV

ACT Spectral is launching a new range of microwave-powered UV curing systems for many electronics applications.

The first model in the UV-MAC (microwave applied curing) range will be the UV-MAC 6, a 150mm wide module at a power output of 120w/cm. Additions in the form of wider cure widths, higher output powers and a variety of model derivatives will follow by late summer.

The system uses a unique and patented process involving non-conductive reflectors, which are "transparent" to microwave energy. Moulded from toughened glass, the reflectors have a special gas vapour deposition dichroic coating, which offers the best UV reflectivity across all wavelengths while absorbing infra red (IR) energy. The net result is an efficient UV unit with, it is claimed, a much lower heat emission than a standard system.

Variable reflector geometry is now available for the first time in a microwave powered UV unit. Different focal lengths, including ACT Spectral's successful "Flood" pattern, ensure lamp technology can be better adapted to maximise performance on a wide spread of applications. The glass reflector is also more dimensionally stable than metal equivalents, thus eliminating any cracking or "crazing" of the dichroic coating, to give exceptionally long service life. Positive air cooling keeps internal components clean from air-borne or process contamination.

Maintenance cost will be cut compared with existing microwave powered UVs, due to less componentry and simplified access to parts. Combine this with a dichroic reflector as standard and the UV-MAC offers a powerful, yet cost effective package.

Press enquiries to Adrian Lockwood, ACT Spectral. Tel: +44 (0)1844 267901; Fax: +44 (0)1844 267908.

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