HYBRID-OVEN SYSTEM INNOVATION

Lambda Technology is a specialist in near infrared (NIR) processes based in Grafing, near Munich, Germany. The company has developed a hybrid-oven system with which drying processes can be specifically and finely controlled, measured and monitored. The system is also suitable for retrofit applications. 

Lambda Technology has combined NIR, (plus IR), hot air/recirculating air, nozzle air and an innovative energy-cycle concept that also harnesses waste heat. Each hybrid-oven system consists of the components heater, transport unit and digital-air technology. For air drying, the air nozzles work with either warm or cold air. The air management in the units – a patented concept with warm exhaust air – supports the drying process. 

Modernised printing processes are opening up new fields of application, including printed electronics and aqueous-digital printing. The oven systems and heaters that dry – or crosslink and cure – the respective substrates, play a decisive role in the new functionalities. Energy consumption, process quality and overall equipment efficiency (OEE) also play a part. 

The quality of the process depends on factors such as the targeted heat input, depth of penetration into the substrate, air management, discharge of solvents, speed and energy resources.

Due to the flexible-process control, Lambda Technology systems can be used universally and adapted to any substrate. 
For example, films, paper, lacquers, inks, polymers, textiles and coatings.

“The air management in the units supports the drying process”

Lambda Technology has also developed the energy-cycle concept, which can achieve energy savings of up to 80% compared to conventional drying methods. A multi-stage design enables the hybrid units to use the invested energy efficiently. For example, the waste heat of the heating module is used for recirculation processes. The otherwise normally unused energy is directed onto the substrate as warm air and is thus still utilised. The warm air, in turn, circulates several times as nozzle air in the recirculating air dryer. Another advantage of air movement in the drying process is that the coating reacts to air movement and heat. With the air flow, drying can be controlled in a targeted manner. Additionally, the hot air absorbs volatile substances, such as water and solvents, and removes them from the substrate. 

In future, the Lambda Technology hybrid dryer will be available in a range of web widths (200mm, 320mm, 400mm, 530mm, 670mm, 1,050mm, 1,250mm and 1,700mm) with a one-metre, run-length unit. It will also be possible to design all web widths. This capability allows processes to be considerably accelerated and the user can apply the drying profile in many process-optimised variants.

“A multi-stage design enables the hybrid units to use the invested energy efficiently”

All radiation and air-technology functions are integrated into each unit and counter reflectors are available as an option. The systems are also available for conveyor belts, with the choice of a suction belt or roll-to-roll (RTR) system, as well as Ex applications.