UV epoxy is a versatile adhesive or coating that cures quickly with UV light, making it cost-effective and ideal for controlled cures. It can be used in various industries and hobbies, and there are different curing methods and equipment available. Specialty epoxies are also available, and UV epoxies can be used for bonding, sealing, and even as a photo paper adhesive. However, users should take precautions to avoid skin and eye irritation.
An ultraviolet (UV) epoxy can be an adhesive or a coating, depending on the formula and application, that uses UV light to cure or cure. UV epoxies have many industrial applications in electronics, medical, automotive and others. Some people use UV epoxies for hobby applications, such as glass, metal, and plastic objects. Hobbyists typically use spot lamps as a UV light source, but there are other types of equipment used in industrial treatments, including lamps built into conveyor systems.
Some reasons to choose UV epoxy include cost effectiveness, speed of cure, and controlled cures. Traditional epoxies generally require heat or a long cure time to cure. Typically, UV epoxies cure without the need for ovens or drying racks, eliminating costly labor in the process. The speed at which UV epoxy cures also reduces production costs. The ability to control curing with UV light means a manufacturer has control over which areas cure quickly.
There are three ways to cure UV epoxy resin. One method is to use only UV light. The other two methods use UV light with special epoxies that use moisture or heat to cure. Because UV epoxies cure only when exposed to light, areas that are shaded or otherwise shielded won’t cure as quickly. Generally, these areas cure over time, but companies use moisture or heat to speed the cure time. Some manufacturers take advantage of this and use focused beam UV lights to quickly cure only specific areas.
The lighting systems used to cure epoxies vary depending on the application and the user’s resources. Most home applications use a UV spotlight or table lamp. Industries may use bench lamps, focused beam lamps, lights integrated into transportation systems and other equipment.
Often companies use special UV epoxies. Some companies use epoxies with fluorescent dyes so workers can see if the epoxy is applied correctly. Other specialty epoxies include cationic and acrylate epoxies. Cationic UV epoxies continue to cure when the UV light is turned off, while acrylate UV epoxies only cure when exposed to UV light.
Some common uses for UV epoxies include dentistry, optical equipment, and metal bonding. People often use UV epoxies in the production of glass goblets, DC motor assemblies, and bonding clear acrylics and other plastics. In addition to bonding, people can use UV epoxies as sealants. Many manufacturers use UV epoxies to seal decorative items, such as key chains, magnets and pins. UV epoxies work well with photo paper.
Users need to consider some health issues when working with UV epoxies. UV epoxy and its fumes may be mildly irritating to skin and eyes. A person should wear safety glasses or goggles to protect their eyes from splashes. If the chemical splashes into your eyes, wash your eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention immediately. Users should avoid prolonged skin contact by wearing gloves and should clean exposed areas with warm water and mild soap.
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