3W High Power UV LED - 365nm Ultraviolet (20mm Aluminum Star PCB)

Specifications:

• Power Rating: 3 Watts
• Peak Wavelength: 365nm 
• Forward Voltage (Vf): 3.4V - 3.8V DC
• Forward Current (If): 600mA - 700mA (Max)
• Luminous Flux: 10-15 LM (Visual brightness is low due to non-visible spectrum)
• Viewing Angle: 120° - 140°
• PCB Diameter: 20mm (Star Type)
• Life Span: > 50,000 Hours (with proper heatsinking)

Key Applications & Projects

• Rapid UV Curing: Instantly cures UV-activated resins, adhesives, and solder masks (Green oil).
• Forensics & Verification: Detects counterfeit banknotes and invisible ink security features.
• Mineralogy & Gemology: Excites fluorescence in minerals that appear dull under 395nm light.
• Leak Detection: Highlights UV-reactive dyes in HVAC and automotive cooling systems.
• PCB Fabrication: Exposes photoresist film for DIY circuit board etching.

Project Evolution 

• Prerequisites: If you have worked with standard 5mm DIP LEDs, you know they lack the radiant flux to penetrate thick resin.
• The Upgrade: This 3W Emitter unlocks Deep-Cure Capability, allowing you to cure layers of resin in seconds. It also enables Macro Fluorescence Photography.
• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires soldering and thermal management (Heatsinking is mandatory).

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety Guide

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• Invisible Hazard: 365nm UV light is largely invisible. DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY INTO THE EMITTER. Use UV-blocking safety glasses.

• Heat Management: You MUST mount this star PCB onto a larger aluminum heatsink using thermal plaster. Running this without a heatsink will burn the chip in seconds.

Wiring Pinout:

• (+) Pad: Connect to Positive Driver Output (Red).
• (-) Pad: Connect to Negative Driver Output (Black).

​Packages include:

1 X 3W High Power UV LED - 365nm Ultraviolet (20mm Aluminum Star PCB)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why does this light look dimmer than my cheap purple torch? 365nm is on the edge of the visible spectrum. Most energy is invisible UV. Cheap lights are 395nm (Violet) and look brighter but are less effective.
2.  Can I run this directly on a 18650 battery?
   No. A charged 18650 (4.2V) exceeds the max voltage (3.8V). Use a resistor or driver.
3. Will this cure UV resin for 3D printing?
   Yes, most resins cure vigorously at 365nm.
4. How hot does this get?
   Without a heatsink, it will overheat in <10 seconds. Keep under 60°C.
5. Does it come with thermal paste?
   No, you must apply paste between the Star PCB and your heatsink
6. Is this waterproof?
   No, connections are exposed.
7. Can I use this for sanitization?
   No. Germicidal UV is UV-C (254nm). This is UV-A.
8. What driver do I need?
   A Constant Current module set to 600mA-700mA.
9. Can I dim this LED?
   Yes, with a PWM-capable driver.
10. Why is the PCB aluminum?
    For 10x faster heat transfer than fiberglass.
11. Is the lens glass?
    It is a UV-resistant high-temp silicone dome.
12. Can I use sunglasses for safety?
    No. Use clear polycarbonate glasses rated for UV400.
13. What is the polarity?
    Marked (+) and (-) on the PCB.
14. Can I solder wires directly?
    Yes, use a high-wattage iron.
15. Does it work for scorpions?
    Yes, they fluoresce brightly.
16. Will it detect pet stains?
    Yes, dried organic proteins fluoresce.
17. What is the beam angle?
    ~120 degrees (Flood).
18. Is the PCB isolated?
    Yes, the base is electrically isolated.
19. How do I mount it?
    thermal adhesive.
20. Does it emit visible light?
    A faint whitish-blue glow, but mostly invisible UV.