SHEETFED DRYING/CURING SYSTEMS -- Running Hot and Cold

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The Graphiset series is a new family of IR drying systems from Baldwin Technology. Depending on the model, their advanced features can include automatic temperature control, operator-friendly touchscreen panels, job memory, self-diagnostics and water-cooled reflector plates that are seamlessly integrated into the press delivery.

GraphiSet GS1 is a patented IR dryer for sheetfed presses with low pile delivery. It incorporates short-wave IR modules and water and/or air-cooling. GraphiSet GS2 is a low energy IR dryer compatible with most 26˝/28˝ presses with high pile delivery. GraphiSet GS4 is designed for sheetfed presses with a high pile delivery and coater. It features automatic temperature control.

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Accel Graphic Systems manufactures the Tempest hot air dryer, which uses PTC thermistors instead of IR elements to accelerate the drying process. Thermistors are self-regulating semiconductors that use a phenomenon called autostabilization to maintain a constant temperature without the need of a thermostat. Heat is generated when an electrical current is applied to the unit.

According to the manufacturer, this approach to drying eliminates the risk of fire because the thermistors approach, but never reach, the temperature at which they could ignite paper. This heating is combined with a flow of warm air to accelerate the drying process. The technology is said to be as effective as IR for drying inks (excluding UV) and water-based coatings.

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Fuchs-DeVries Inc. (FDV) lays claim to several industry firsts, including introducing the first "shortwave" IR dryer for the U.S. market and the first standalone hot air dryer for water-base coatings. The company combines these components with its "Heat/Powder/Ammonia" exhaust systems to create the "Total Drying System" for conventional inks and water-based coatings. All of the components can be independently adjusted by PLC/touchscreen controls.