Oxytech Systems Industrial Drying Systems: A Comprehensive Overview

Oxytech Systems, Inc., based in Carpentersville, Illinois, has been recognized as a leader in the development of innovative drying and curing solutions for the printing and graphic arts industries since 2004. With over 70 years of combined experience, the company’s infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) drying systems are engineered to enhance efficiency, increase production speeds, and deliver high-quality results across various applications, including corrugated, flexographic, newspaper, sheet-fed, web printing and industrial segments. Below, a detailed examination of Oxytech Systems’ industrial drying systems is provided, focusing on their design, functionality, applications, and benefits, with information drawn from the company’s online presence and industry insights.

Company Background and Expertise

Oxytech Systems has been established as a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in high-performance drying and curing equipment. The company’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its tailored solutions for industries requiring precise and efficient drying processes. By leveraging advanced infrared and hot air drying technologies, Oxytech Systems has been trusted to meet the demanding needs of the graphic arts and corrugated sectors. The company’s systems are designed and manufactured in the USA, ensuring quality control and reliability, as noted on their official website.

Overview of Industrial Drying Systems

Industrial drying systems by Oxytech Systems are crafted to remove moisture from various substrates, ensuring product quality and operational efficiency. These systems are utilized across multiple industries, including printing, packaging, and manufacturing, where moisture control is critical to prevent spoilage, enhance product durability, and reduce transportation costs. The drying process is achieved through methods such as heat, airflow, and, evacuation, which facilitate the evaporation of water molecules from materials like paper, cardboard, inks, and coatings.

Infrared Drying Systems

Infrared drying systems are a cornerstone of Oxytech’s offerings. These systems utilize short-wave or medium-wave infrared technology to deliver rapid and efficient drying.

Infrared drying systems are particularly effective for applications requiring high-speed drying. For example, in the corrugated industry, Oxytech’s systems are capable of increasing corrugator speeds by up to 30%, significantly boosting productivity. The use of infrared drying is also prevalent in newspaper printing and box-making, where quick drying times are essential to maintain production schedules.

Hot Air Drying Systems

Hot air drying systems are another key component of Oxytech’s portfolio. These systems employ heated air to remove moisture from materials, offering a gentler drying process compared to infrared systems. Hot air dryers are particularly suited for applications involving sensitive materials, such as in the production of flexible packaging materials, where remoisturizing glue or joining inks requires careful handling to avoid thermal damage. Oxytech’s heated air knife systems are designed for corrugators, flexographic printing, and laminating processes, providing uniform drying conditions that enhance product consistency and reduce the risk of spoilage.

Variable Data Drying Systems

Variable data drying systems are tailored for digital printing machines, addressing the unique challenges of on-demand printing. These systems are designed to handle pre- and post-drying requirements, ensuring that inks and coatings are properly set on substrates like paper and plastic. The compact and modular nature of these systems allows for seamless integration into existing printing setups, making them ideal for high-gloss and coated materials where precise drying is critical.

Applications Across Industries

Oxytech Systems’ drying solutions are applied across a range of industries, each with specific requirements:

• Corrugated Industry: Corrugator dryers are engineered to enhance the speed and efficiency of corrugated board production. By reducing moisture content, these systems improve the structural integrity of boxes and reduce transportation costs due to lower weight.
• Flexographic and Newspaper Printing: Infrared dryers are used to accelerate drying times for inks, ensuring high-quality prints and faster production cycles.
• Sheet-Fed and Web Printing: Oxytech’s systems cater to both sheet-fed and web applications, offering flexibility for various printing presses ranging from 10 to 120 inches in width.
• Digital Printing: Pre- and post-drying systems are optimized for digital printing machines, supporting variable data printing and ensuring consistent output quality.
• Textiles & Nonwovens: Drying finishes and backings on woven and nonwoven materials.

• Automotive & Aerospace: Paint and primer drying on metals and plastics.
• Electronics & Optics: IR and UV systems for printed circuit boards (PCBs). UV bonding and encapsulation of optical components.

Technical Features and Innovations

The drying systems are equipped with advanced features to enhance performance and user control. For instance, the infrared systems incorporate Mitsubishi programmable logic controllers (PLCs) with touch-screen operator interfaces, allowing for precise monitoring and adjustment of drying parameters. Temperature feedback sensors and over-temperature protection ensure safe operation.

Oxytech’s hot air drying systems are designed to operate at lower temperatures (typically 50-200°C), minimizing heat damage and oxidation. This is particularly beneficial for sensitive materials, such as those used in pharmaceutical or food packaging, where maintaining product integrity is paramount. The systems’ ability to provide uniform drying conditions is achieved through advanced air distribution mechanisms, such as perforated bed plates and air distributor plates, which promote even airflow and reduce dust formation.

Benefits of Oxytech’s Drying Systems

Several advantages are associated with Oxytech Systems’ drying solutions:

• Increased Productivity: By accelerating drying times, these systems enable faster production cycles, particularly in high-volume industries like corrugated manufacturing and newspaper printing.
• Improved Product Quality: Precise temperature control and uniform drying conditions result in consistent, high-quality outputs, reducing defects such as ink smudging or substrate warping.
• Cost Efficiency: Drying reduces the weight and volume of materials, lowering transportation costs. Additionally, energy-efficient designs contribute to reduced operational expenses.
• Versatility: The systems are adaptable to a wide range of substrates and applications, from high-gloss paper to plastics, making them suitable for diverse industries.
• Reliability and Durability: Manufactured in the USA with rigorous quality standards, Oxytech’s systems are built for long-term performance and minimal maintenance.

Industry Impact and Recognition

Oxytech Systems has been acknowledged for its contributions to the printing and graphic arts industries. A notable example is its collaboration with SG360°, a leading printing and direct mail marketing services provider, where Oxytech’s UV and IR technologies have been utilized to enhance production efficiency and support sanitization efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oxytech systems developed a portable hand held  UV sanitizing system. The company’s focus on innovation has earned it a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses seeking high-performance drying solutions.

 Contact and Further Information

For those interested in exploring Oxytech Systems’ drying solutions, the company can be reached at its Carpentersville, Illinois, headquarters at 852 Commerce Parkway. Contact options include phone 847-888-8611, fax 847-888-8696, or info@oxytechsystems.com.

Conclusion

Oxytech Systems’ industrial drying systems are distinguished by their innovative design, versatility, and efficiency. By addressing the specific needs of the printing, packaging, and manufacturing industries, these systems deliver measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and cost savings. With a legacy of over 70 years in the field, Oxytech continues to lead the industry in providing reliable and high-performance drying solutions, solidifying its position as a key player in the global market.