Ask the Expert Archive: Electronic Beam (e-beam)

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Does E-beam require a photo initiator?
What are the overall economics?
Will E-beam compete with UV?

Archive of Questions and Answers

Does E-beam require a photo initiator?
For most applications the answer is no. However, exposure to E-beam requires a nitrogen blanket to reduce ozone production and eliminate oxygen, which will inhibit the curing of the applied film.

What are the overall economics?
E-beam units can be expensive, ranging from $500,000 to over $1,000,000 a copy. Newer technology has reduced the cost to under $100,000.

Will E-beam compete with UV?
In thicker coating and ink applications, E-beam will routinely cure a thicker ink application and a complete range of colors. In other ink applications, E-beam will not displace UV even though the cost has been reduced.