Driving Sustainability and Profitability with LED Technology

This episode of the Futureprint Podcast features Rob Karsten from Phoseon Technology. Karsten talks to Marcus about Phoseon’s journey, the benefits that LED technology provides to the print industry, and how it supports sustainable production.

WHAT IS LED TECHNOLOGY?

In 2002, Phoseon became an LED pioneer, offering an alternative to standard mercury-based technology. Traditionally, the curing system would require mercury lamps to heat up before they were ready for use, so operators were less likely to turn them off when not needed. As a result, they would be permanently switched on. Not only did this prolong the process, but also used up an incredible amount of energy and emitted a lot of heat. 

The advantages of using LED lamps is that the system can be switched on and off as required, and rather than curing the entire surface it can target a specific area. The components of LED systems are stable and long-lasting, in contrast to the mercury lamps which deteriorate over time. 

SUSTAINABILITY IN PRINT

To be sustainable means to be able to last over a long period of time, and of course the environmental aspect is crucial to achieve this, as we rely on natural resources to survive. But at the same time, every decision made by a company needs to be cost-effective to facilitate long-term prosperity. 

After facing the devastating impact of the post-pandemic world, the UK is now dealing with the effects of the invasion of Ukraine with the inflation and raised energy prices shaking up the economy. 

Of course no industry came out untouched by those unprecedented changes, but it’s positive to see that despite the challenges, the print industry is still pushing towards sustainability.

WHAT MAKES PHOSEON SUSTAINABLE?

Karsten commented that “Using new technology, changing behaviours, and how we manage our energy budgets will have a great impact in terms of sustainability and the company’s profitability.”

Phoseon’s LED systems have created an impact across the industry. Its “on demand” functionality and targeted curing area feature has improved the entire curing process, making operations more efficient and reducing energy waste. 

Previously, companies may have been hesitant to invest in what is perceived as costly sustainable practices, but now it is clear that these solutions can tangibly cut costs, especially in industries heavily dependent on electricity. Moreover, on a “human level”, Karsten asserts that the rise in prices will in fact have a positive impact on people’s behaviour, as it will make them more conscious of their energy consumption. 

Conversations are also changing at board level, where organisations realise that choosing a more sustainable process is not only saving money, but is also helping them to meet sustainability goals. Phoseon’s stats show that since founding the company in 2002, customers who converted to LED technology from mercury lamps achieved savings of 5 million tons of CO2 emissions. 

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF THE LED TECHNOLOGY?

It is clear that the economic factor is further driving the change towards sustainability, which is already boosted by customer and legislative demand. 

Phoseon continues its focus on R&D; last year the company introduced the industry's first fully air-cooled system for flexographic UV printing systems, and continues to work with customers to broaden their range of products. 

With Phoseon’s wide portfolio and continuous development, the company is ready to meet growing demand for sustainable LED technology in the print industry. 

Find more information at phoseon.com.

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