EB (Electron Beam)
Accelerating Decarbonization with EB Technology
In line with the Paris Agreement, the world, including Japan, is aiming for a "decarbonized society" that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide, to virtually zero. Companies will also be required to take concrete measures going forward.
In addition to the common thermosetting method, there is also the electron beam (EB) curing method, which utilizes electron beams. The characteristics of each method are as follows:
Heat curing method
- Because it has poor heat conductivity, it takes a long time to harden.
- In addition to the heat required for direct curing, it is also necessary to heat the contact points inside the furnace.
This process requires a large amount of energy , and because the hardening paint uses organic solvents (CO₂ sources), a large amount of CO₂ is generated .
EB curing method
- By directly concentrating radiant energy onto the paint , processing can be completed in a short time.
- Processing is possible at room temperature
⇒ No need to heat anything other than the paint.
Energy consumption is reduced , and because it is a solvent-free curing paint, CO₂ emissions are also lowered .
Iwasaki Electric offers a lineup of high-performance production EB equipment and the "EYE Compact EB" which can be used for research and development in various fields. We also provide irradiation services (for a fee) using various EB equipment. If you are interested in EB treatment as an alternative to thermosetting treatment, please feel free to contact us.
Comparison of different curing methods
| EB curing method | UV curing method | Heat curing method | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curing atmosphere | Inert gas | Air (or inert gas) | Air |
| On-off operation | Yes | Yes (shutters and LEDs) | No |
| Energy units | Absorbed dose (Gy = J/kg) | UV dose (J/m²) | - |
| Curing time | Seconds | Several seconds to tens of seconds | Several minutes to tens of minutes |
| Curing temperature | Ambient temperature | 40-80°C | 80-250°C |
| Enamel coating | Possible | Limited (depending on coating thickness and UV source selection) | Possible |
| Volatile content | 0-20% | 0-60% | 60-80% |
| Paint pot life | Long | Long to short | Short |
| Safety considerations | X-rays, ozone, etc. | UV radiation, trace ozone | Heat, solvent handling |
| Equipment floor space | Medium (or small) | Small (or medium) | Large |
| Relative energy consumption (heat curing = 100) | 2 | 5 | 100 |
Contact
For crosslinking, polymerization, and sterilization using electron beams (EB), trust Iwasaki Electric.
We develop custom solutions tailored to your needs.