UV LED Vacuum Exposure Unit for Screens up to 60 × 80 cm
This UV-A LED vacuum exposure unit is designed for workshops, schools and studios that need to work with larger screen printing frames while maintaining precise control over film positive contact and exposure time.
Its maximum exposure area of 63 × 83 cm makes it suitable for screens with an internal area of up to 60 × 80 cm, considerably expanding the working capacity compared with smaller tabletop exposure units.
The combination of a 395 nm UV-A LED source, 120 W total LED power, vacuum system and digital control provides a practical solution for studios looking for professional exposure features without the investment associated with larger industrial equipment.
80 kPa Vacuum for Close Film-to-Screen Contact
When exposing screens containing small details, fine lines or halftones, an appropriate UV source alone is not enough. Close contact between the film positive and the photosensitive emulsion has a direct influence on image reproduction.
The vacuum pump allows the system to reach a maximum vacuum of 80 kPa (0.08 MPa). The resulting vacuum keeps the film positive in close and uniform contact with the screen during exposure.
Air is removed through the lower section of the unit, eliminating the need to place a cord around the frame to assist vacuum formation and simplifying screen preparation.
The exposure unit can be used with compatible wooden and aluminium screen printing frames, provided their dimensions are suitable for the machine.
395 nm UV-A LED Source with 120 W Power
This model incorporates 12 × 10 W UV LED modules, providing a total LED power of 120 W.
The light source operates at 395 nm, within the UV-A spectrum.
In addition to lower energy consumption compared with certain traditional exposure technologies, LED technology provides instant start-up and allows a relatively compact light source to be integrated into an exposure unit with a larger working area.
Larger Exposure Area for Studios and Schools
One of the main reasons for choosing this model over the 50 × 60 cm version is its greater working capacity.
The ability to expose screens with internal dimensions of up to 60 × 80 cm provides greater flexibility for larger graphic work, multiple-image layouts and studios that regularly use screens in different sizes.
This makes the unit particularly suitable for art schools, shared printmaking workshops, printing studios and small professional screen printing facilities that want to avoid being restricted by the size of a smaller exposure unit.
Digital Control for Repeatable Exposure
PLC control allows the machine to be programmed with an adjustable 0–999 second timer and setting memory.
Once the correct exposure time has been established for a particular combination of emulsion, mesh, coating and film positive, storing and repeating the settings helps maintain consistent working conditions for subsequent screens.
Exposure Times with this UV LED Exposure Unit
The manufacturer gives an approximate reference of 40–70 seconds for certain screens and emulsions, but this range should not be interpreted as a universal exposure time.
The correct exposure depends on the emulsion and sensitisation system, coating thickness, mesh, mesh colour, optical density of the film positive and other variables. Exposure times used for screen printing should not be extrapolated to cyanotype, photopolymer plates or other photosensitive materials.
We recommend carrying out an exposure test or step test whenever working with a new combination of materials. Once the appropriate exposure has been established, the digital timer makes it easier to reproduce those conditions in future work.
Applications Beyond Screen Printing
The unit is primarily designed for exposing emulsion-coated screen printing screens, but its 395 nm UV-A LED source also opens up possibilities for other compatible photosensitive processes.
Potential applications include:
For these applications, it is important to distinguish between compatibility and optimisation. The fact that a plate or sensitised material responds to a 395 nm light source means that exposure with this unit may be possible, but it does not necessarily mean that it is the optimum light source for achieving the best result.
For photopolymer plates, photogravure and alternative photographic processes in particular, we recommend checking the specifications and spectral sensitivity of the material and carrying out exposure tests or step tests before establishing a final workflow.
Technical Specifications
- Recommended screen size: up to 60 × 80 cm internal dimensions
- Maximum exposure area: 63 × 83 cm
- Light source: UV-A LED
- Wavelength: 395 nm
- LED power: 120 W (12 × 10 W)
- Maximum vacuum: 80 kPa / 0.08 MPa
- Timer: 0–999 seconds
- Control: PLC with setting memory
- Power supply: 220 V
- Packaging: protective wooden crate, 105 × 92 × 20 cm
- Approximate gross weight: 52 kg
Which UV Exposure System Do You Need?
If you mainly work with smaller screens and are looking for a more compact and economical unit, see our 50 × 60 cm UV LED Vacuum Exposure Unit.
For occasional exposure work or applications where a vacuum system is not required, our portable UV LED exposure lamp provides a considerably simpler solution for exposing screens and compatible photosensitive materials.
Shipping & Availability
Due to the size and weight of this equipment, we recommend contacting Rittagraf team before placing an order to confirm availability.
For international orders, please contact us before purchasing to check shipping costs, delivery conditions and availability for your destination. International shipping is quoted according to destination and order requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum recommended screen size?
This model is recommended for screens with internal dimensions of up to 60 × 80 cm and provides a maximum exposure area of 63 × 83 cm.
What is the difference between this model and the 50 × 60 cm exposure unit?
The main differences are working capacity and LED power. This model accommodates larger screens and provides 120 W of LED power, compared with 80 W on the more compact model.
What wavelength do the LEDs use?
The LEDs operate at 395 nm, within the UV-A spectrum.
Why use a vacuum exposure unit?
The vacuum system helps maintain close and uniform contact between the film positive and photosensitive emulsion. This is particularly important when reproducing fine details, sharp edges and halftones.
Can it be used for cyanotype and alternative photographic processes?
It can be used with photosensitive processes compatible with 395 nm UV-A light. Exposure time must be determined specifically through testing for each sensitiser, process and substrate.
Can I use it for photopolymer plates?
Yes, provided the spectral sensitivity of the plate is compatible with 395 nm. For demanding letterpress, flexographic or photogravure applications, we recommend checking the plate specifications and carrying out exposure tests before establishing a production workflow.
Is shipping included?
Shipping conditions depend on the destination. For international orders, please contact Rittagraf before purchasing so we can confirm availability, shipping costs and delivery conditions for your country.
