Olec 5k vs 8k

[mimosatexas]

Any downside to an Olec 8k vs a 5k assuming they cost about the same used ($200 difference and an extra hour of travel for me to pick up the 8k)?  I'm having a little trouble finding information on power requirements and replacement costs on components like the bulbs (they both seem to run around $300, but I can't even really confirm that pricing or where the best place would be to get a replacemnt), which would be a factor of course.  How much faster will exposure be with the 8k vs 5k generally speaking?

Basically this: https://nwgraphic.com/product.php?id=E--AL--83 for $950

vs

this: https://nwgraphic.com/product.php?id=E--AL--53 for $750

I use SP1400 at the moment and will likely keep using it while testing similar emulsions.  Should I get the diazo or pp/diazo hybrid lamp? http://www.douthittcorp.com/al53-al83.htm

[markdhl]

Choose the light that is in the best condition and one that has a good superwide reflector.  We stock all the parts and bulbs for both units.

AL 83 is 208 - 240 volt (you need to set voltage selector switch), single phase 42 amps and should use a HF1 external fan. 

AL 53  is 208 - 240 volt (you need to set voltage selector switch), single phase about 25 amps and if using outside a cabinet then does not need the HF1 fan.

These are great light sources but you should send to Douthitt to go over the units and repair what is needed. Send me an email if you want manuals and more information on bulb selection.  mark@douthittcorp.com 

Mark Diehl
Douthitt Corporation

[mimosatexas]

Thanks for the info.  How do you tell what kind of reflector a unit has, and how do you figure out the optimal distance from the glass accordingly?  I have always just done the 1.5x the diagonal of the art to determine distance and done exposure testing from there.  Info like manuals and bulb differences would also be appreciated.  I'll email you shortly.  Thanks!

[ebscreen]

Reflector should be marked on side of lamphead next to the lamp type.
SW = Super Wide, and from what I vaguely recall is less than 1 times the distance from the glass.
.8 maybe.

[markdhl]

Yes, reflectors are marked.

The superwide reflector in good condition allows you to be about .65 of the diagonal of the OD of the screen is the rule of thumb.

Invers  square law of lights mean that is we can move 1/4 of the distance closer, the exposure time will drop in half.

Mark

[ABuffington]

Both are excellent exposure units.  The 8k does expose a stronger discharge, wb screen than the 5k by a little bit.  If your run lengths are short it won't matter as much.  Both offer excellent value.  Get original lamps Olec lamps from Douthitt for best exposure of emulsions, and like Mark says, send it to Douthitt to go over. Shutter systems like these offer instant lamp strength as soon as the exposure starts.  These are my favorite lamps of all.  I have no tech calls from companies that use them.  Best of all, you can use a larger vacuum table, if they are the free standing variety, and shoot 4 screens at once.  You can also post expose screens while you are shooting new ones by leaning them against a wall mount vacuum frame while you are shooting new screens.  The histogram on these lamps are the go to for emulsion manufacturers.  Strong strength in all wavelengths, with multi spectral spikes in the most needed ones. 

Just don't do what my screen tech did when we got one.  We used a diazo emulsion and he was used to inspecting the screens as they exposed to watch for color change.  Next day he was sun burnt on one side of his face only.  They do need a separate screen room, or light safe curtains to avoid light contamination and to protect workers if they are the free standing variety. 

Beware not to retrofit these into an enclosed unit without contacting the experts at Douthitt.  A shop I go to blew up their glass due to the excess heat.  The light units last longer with the fan and exhausting that heat out of the screen room. 

Al

[Inkworks]

Exposure lights fall under the "more is better" rule for me if all other considerations are the same. I have the 8K Olec and love it.

[markdhl]

One more thing, NEVER use the light without the oem safety glass firmly in place! The safety glass filters out the most harmful nanometers.

[Sbrem]

I had that "sunburn" on the backs of my legs once, from a Violux with a broken shutter. He's lucky he didn't ruin his sight...

Steve

[Frog]

Some enterprising entrepreneur needs to figure out a way to combine an exposure unit with a Sun Tan Booth, and profit from that effect.

[CGS]

Some enterprising entrepreneur needs to figure out a way to combine an exposure unit with a Sun Tan Booth, and profit from that effect.

I saw an M&R tanning booth a few years back at the factory, it looked really sharp.... for a tanning booth...