5W High Power UV LED - 385nm Ultraviolet (20mm Aluminum Star PCB)

Specifications:

• Power Rating: 5 Watts
• Peak Wavelength: 385nm
• Forward Voltage (Vf): 3.4V - 3.8V DC
• Forward Current (If): 1000mA - 1200mA (Max)
• Radiant Flux: High Intensity (Invisible UV Energy)
• Viewing Angle: 120° - 140°
• PCB Diameter: 20mm (Star Type)
• PCB Material: Aluminum Substrate
• Life Span: > 30,000 Hours (with proper heatsinking)
• Visual Color: Deep Violet (Less visible glare than 395nm, more visible than 365nm)

Key Applications & Projects

• 3D Print Curing Chambers: The ideal wavelength for post-processing SLA/DLP resin prints.
• PCB Soldermask Curing: Quickly hardens UV green oil/mask for DIY circuit boards.
• Aquarium Lighting: Promotes fluorescence in marine corals (actinic supplement).
• UV Screen Printing: Cures photosensitive emulsions and inks.
• Adhesive Bonding: Rapidly cures glass bonding glues and structural UV adhesives.

Project Evolution 

• Prerequisites: Users currently using UV LED Strips or 3W 395nm LEDs.
• The Upgrade: Moving to 5W 385nm drastically cuts down cure times. If your resin prints feel sticky after hours under a strip light, a few minutes under this 5W emitter will cure them rock-hard.
• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires soldering and setting up a proper heat sink.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety Guide

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• Eye Safety: 5W of UV light is dangerous to stare at. Even though 385nm looks dim, it is very intense. Wear UV safety glasses.
• Heat Management: Do not run for more than 5 seconds without a heatsink.

Wiring Pinout:

• (+) Pad: Positive Input.
• (-) Pad: Negative Input.
• Recommended Driver: Constant Current LED Driver (1000mA - 1200mA).

​Packages include:

1 X 5W High Power UV LED - 385nm Ultraviolet (20mm Aluminum Star PCB)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why choose 385nm over 395nm?
   385nm is closer to the peak absorption of many industrial photo-initiators. This means it cures resins and inks faster and more completely (less "tacky" surface) than the cheaper 395nm lights.

   2. Why choose 385nm over 365nm?
   Cost. 365nm is expensive and mainly needed for forensics/inspection where visible light must be zero. For curing, 385nm is almost as effective as 365nm but costs much less (₹399 vs ₹999).

   3. Does it need a heatsink?
   Yes, absolutely. It is a 5W high-power device. Without a large heatsink, it will burn out immediately.

   4. Can I use a 3W driver?
   A 3W driver typically outputs 600-700mA. It will light up this LED, but at about half brightness. To get full 5W power, you need a 1000-1200mA driver.

   5. Is the light visible?
   Yes, it emits a deep violet glow, but it is less bright to the eye than 395nm.

   6. Will this cure 3D printer resin?
   Yes, it is excellent for post-curing SLA/DLP prints.

   7. Can I use it for PCB UV mask (Green Oil)?
   Yes, 385nm is very effective for curing UV solder mask paint.

   8. Is the star board aluminum?
   Yes, it is a standard 20mm aluminum MCPCB.

   9. Can I connect it to 12V?
   No! 12V will destroy it instantly. You need a driver that steps 12V down to the LED's required voltage/current.

   10. Is it good for coral tanks?
   Yes, 385nm stimulates fluorescence in corals. Use it with caution as it is very powerful; dimming is recommended.

   11. Does it work for banknotes?
   It works okay, but 365nm is much better for that purpose. 385nm still has some visible purple glare that can hide faint security marks.

   12. Can I use thermal tape?
   For 5W, thermal paste + screws is better. Thermal tape might not transfer heat fast enough for this power level.

   13. What is the beam angle?
   ~120 degrees.

   14. Can I look at the beam?
   No. It is high-intensity UV. Use safety glasses.

   15. Is it waterproof?
   No.

   16. Does it emit heat (IR)?
   LEDs emit very little IR (radiant heat) in the beam, but the chip itself gets hot. It is a "cold light" source for the object being cured.

   17. How long will it last?
   Over 30,000 hours if kept cool (under 60°C).

   18. Can I use a lens?
   Yes, standard 20mm LED lenses fit perfectly.

   19. Polarity markings?
   Yes, (+) and (-) are marked on the star board.

   20. Is this better than UV strips?
   Yes, a single point source like this penetrates deeper than weak strip LEDs.