A Little More Choice With The Star Solara Series
Star is now offering one of the most powerful handpieces on the market. You had to know it was coming, with the amount of torque they were able to get out of the very small Star 430 SWL. A little heavier than the 430 series, at 3.2 Ounces, but Star felt the 4 port spray system was important in keeping up with todays standards of expected bur cooling capability. 18 Watts at 410,000 RPM will do some serious work. Smart choice. Co-axial spray does allow faster cutting. Also, the use of Titanium vs Stainless Steel drops about 40% weight for comparably sized handpieces. Titanium seems to material of choice now days, whether talking handpieces or golf clubs.
Star Solara – Lube or Lube Free
To lube, or not to lube. A lot of discussion on this subject over the years, and Star pretty much started the debate. The introduction of ceramic bearings to the dental industry has definitely been and advancement. Ceramic just works better, stays smoother, and handles heat better than other materials, as of yet. With that said, a look at a manufacturer’s warranties provides an easy lesson in the importance of lubrication.
In the case of the Star Solara vs Star Solara L:
- Solara – ceramic no-lube bearings – Warranty 1 year
- Solara L – stainless steel bearings requiring lubrication – Warranty 2 years
Now, for a handpiece to last 1 year + with absolutely no lubrication, considering the rigors of daily use and the dreaded autoclave, could be considered miraculous. But, manufacturers are basically stating that lower quality materials will still last longer than ceramic when lubricated. It’s convenience and a little more protection against cross contamination, vs. extra handpiece maintenance. Your choice. Both Star Solara and Solara L are great little handpieces. Wonder if anyone’s ever just bought the ceramic bearing Star Solar or Star 430Â and just lubricated it as they would any other?
At any rate, Star is American made, makes great handpieces, and the Star Solara series is no exception.
- Titanium materials
- Lube Free, or not
- 4-port co-axial spray
- 18 watts
- 360 swivel