UV System Measuring: Choosing Between UV Test Strips and UV Test Labels

UV test strips and labels are valuable tools that help you evaluate the ultraviolet output of your system, especially in scenarios where traditional measurement tools like probes or radiometers are unsuitable.

Ensuring the optimal performance of your UV curing system is crucial for consistent results and avoiding costly downtime. By detecting UV lamp degradation or other system issues early, you can prevent lengthy shutdowns and maintain efficient operations.

Let’s explore the features and uses of UV test strips and labels to help you choose the right option for your needs.

UV Test Strips: Quick and Reliable Measurements

UV Test Strips are designed for fast and approximate UV output determination. They come with a colour chart that allows you to check the results after exposure to UV light.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Measurement: UV test strips measure the entire UV spectrum.
• Clear Visual Indication: The large rate of colour change provides a clear and precise UV dose determination.
• Easy Monitoring: Accurate visual determination of UV output in difficult-to-access areas.
• Comparison: Evaluate and compare multiple UV light sources.
• Storage: Store product out of sunlight and avoid contact with other light sources.

How to Use UV Test Strips:

1. Inspect Colour Zones: Each of the five separate colour-changing zones on the strip begins to change colour after receiving a specific amount of UV. The first zone turns from yellow to green, with each subsequent zone changing as it receives its designated amount of UV.
2. Use the Comparative Chart: Match the tested UV strip against the comparative chart to correlate the colour pattern to the millijoule range of UV energy.

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UV Test Labels: Precise and Versatile Measurements

UV Test Labels are perfect for providing a precise UV output determination. They are especially useful for establishing a reference point for a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ cure and for testing outputs in small spaces or multiple UV systems due to their compact size.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Spectrum Measurement: UV Intensity Labels measure the entire UV spectrum.
• Accurate Visual Determination: The labels provide an accurate visual indication of UV dose.
• Compact Size: Ideal for monitoring UV dose in difficult-to-access curing environments.
• Detection and Prevention: Detect UV lamp degradation and equipment failures.
• Versatility: Determine the dose profile in 3D curing chambers or across wide webs for even curing. Measure sunlight dose in outdoor curing applications.
• Comparison: Evaluate and compare multiple UV light sources.

How to Use UV Test Labels:

1. Establish a Reference Point: Set up your UV curing system at a known speed and intensity that ensures accurate curing results. Stick the label onto a material passing through your UV system to create a reference for a ‘good’ cure.
2. Monitor and Compare: Incrementally increase your line speed and monitor curing characteristics. When undercure begins, pass another UV test label through the system to establish a ‘bad’ cure reference.
3. Create a ‘Minimum’ Cure Label: Gradually decrease the speed from the setting used for the ‘bad’ cure. Pass the UV test label through your system until a noticeable colour change occurs, indicating the point where your UV system is still effectively curing but requires maintenance.

Both UV Test Labels and UV Test Strips are crafted from the same material and employ the same colour-changing technology.

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Versatile Applications

Whether using UV Test Labels or UV Test Strips, both are perfect for environments where traditional radiometers or lamp monitor probes are impractical. Common applications include:

• 3-D Curing
• Web Coating and Printing
• Sheet-Fed Printing
• Container Printing
• Medical Sterilization
• Exposure Verification

Conclusion

Choosing between UV Test Labels and UV Test Strips depends on your specific requirements. UV Test Strips are ideal for quick, approximate measurements, while UV Test Labels offer precise and customizable monitoring, perfect for detailed assessments and smaller spaces.

Need help deciding between UV Test Labels and UV Test Strips? Contact Alpha-Cure for expert advice and high-quality UV measurement tools tailored to your specific applications.

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