UVC Lamp Uses and Options

Many germicidal applications today feature UVC lamp technology, as UVC light is proven to have powerful germ-killing properties. 

UVC Lamp Design and Engineering 

UVC lamps are ultraviolet (UV) lamps that are manufactured to emit UV light at a specific wavelength, measured in nanometers (nm). Ultraviolet light consists primarily of three bands of electromagnetic radiation, UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC light is emitted in the range of 100 to 280 nm, with shorter wavelengths than UVA (315-400 nm) and UVB (280-315 nm) light.  

When emitted from the sun, the majority of UV light that reaches the Earth’s surface is in the UVA range, with some in the UVB range, and UVC radiation is completely absorbed by the ozone layer. Germicidal UVC lamp manufacturers design, engineer, and manufacture UVC lamps to emit electromagnetic radiation in a specific wavelength to meet application requirements. 

UVC Lamp Germicidal Applications

UVC light is proven to have highly effective germicidal properties, killing many types of bacteria and viruses, as well as preventing mold and mildew. This makes UVC lamps a very important part of many types of disinfection and sterilization systems used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. 

UVC Lamps for Air Purification

UVC lamps are used in UV air sterilization systems in just about any setting to improve indoor air quality and prevent the transmission of harmful airborne germs. UV air sterilization systems protect the health of people in many environments, including residential homes, hospitals and medical facilities, schools, restaurants, public transportation systems, and more.

UVC Lamps for Surface Sterilization

Many UV surface sterilization systems feature UVC lamp technology to prevent the buildup of harmful germs in places like commercial kitchens and laboratories.  UVC lamps are commonly used to protect patients in hospitals and operating rooms and to disinfect medical devices. 

UVC Lamps for Water Disinfection

UVC lamp technology is used in many water disinfection applications and provides safe and efficient germicidal effectiveness. UVC lamps are proven to eliminate some harmful germs in water that chlorine cannot, such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Germicidal UVC lamps for water disinfection provide many advantages over chemical use alone.

UVC Lamp Types

UVC 185nm Ozone Lamps

UVC light in the range of 185 nm produces ozone, which is an effective sanitizer and deodorizer. Ozone lamps are used in a variety of air and water purification systems. Ozone lamps for air purification have the advantage of producing UVC radiation that does not require direct line-of-sight exposure for germicidal effectiveness.  Ozone can reach places that other UVC lamps cannot and are effective at eliminating foul odor in the air and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). 

UVC 254 nm Disinfection Lamps

UVC lamps designed to emit 254 nm are the most common types of UVC germicidal lamps used in a variety of disinfection systems, including air, surface, and water. UVC light at 254 nm quickly eliminates many bacteria and viruses by penetrating the cells and altering the DNA to prevent cell replication. UVC light at 254 nm is proven to eliminate many types of bacteria and viruses, although the correct type of UVC lamp must be used at the right dosage to meet the requirements for specific pathogens. UVC light is proven to eliminate many antibiotic-resistant superbugs and many viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The rate of effectiveness at killing various types of bacteria and viruses depends on the type of microorganism, the intensity of the UVC lamp, and the duration of exposure.

222 nm Excimer Lamps

UVC light in the range near 222 nm, also called Far UVC, is becoming more popular for many germicidal applications. Far UVC lamps are proven to have many similar sterilization properties as 254 nm lamps, although they can be safer for human exposure under the right conditions.

UVC Lamp Custom Design and Manufacturing

LightSources is a world-leading UVC lamp manufacturer, offering high-tech lamp designers and engineers with in-depth knowledge of UV radiation.  We offer a wide range of UVC lamps used in many germicidal applications and custom design and engineering, including prototype development.

This blog post appeared originally here

UV Light Disinfection Effectiveness, Safety, and Lamp Types

UV light disinfection has been around for decades and is a proven effective method to eliminate germs with the use of a UV disinfection lamp.

What Is a UV Disinfection Lamp?

UV lights for disinfecting are used for various disinfection applications to reduce pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. UV disinfection lighting also prevents mold and mildew, which helps to prevent foul odor caused by mold spores or bacteria. UV light disinfection provides a no-touch, chemical-free method of killing many types of harmful germs in the air, on surfaces, and in water.

How Effective Is UV Light Disinfection?

UVC radiation has been proven highly effective in reducing the spread of many types of viruses and bacteria, such as tuberculosis. A UV disinfection lamp is often called a “germicidal” lamp for this reason. Since the onset of the most recent COVID-19 global pandemic that started in 2020, many people have wanted to know if UV disinfection lighting kills the virus that causes COVID-19. According to the Food and Drug Administration, FDA, the UVC radiation found in quality UV disinfection lamps has been shown to destroy the outer protein coating of the SARS-coronavirus, which is a different variation from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

Research is ongoing to determine the effectiveness of UV light disinfection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and many studies show positive results.  UVC radiation has been proven to be highly effective at eliminating various pathogens. As reported in a study issued by Biological Consulting Services, the following harmful pathogens were effectively eliminated with a UV light disinfectant:

• Polio Virus LSc 1 – 99.99% reduction

• Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) – 99.99 reduction

• Influenza A H1N1 – 99.999% reduction

• Salmonella species, 6 variations – 99.99% reduction

• SARS-CoV-2 virus – 99.999% reduction

UV light disinfection is proven highly effective in eliminating these harmful pathogens and many others. It is important to work with an experienced UVC disinfection lamp manufacturer to ensure the lamp emits the proper wavelengths for effective disinfection.

Limitations of UV Lights for Disinfecting

To achieve the most reliable disinfection UV light provides, it is important to understand the limitations in the safe handling of a UV disinfection lamp. UVC radiation can only inactivate a pathogen, virus, or bacteria with direct, line-of-sight exposure. Surfaces that contain dust, soil, or bodily fluids may not receive the full amount of inactivation of pathogens as the contaminated surface can block full exposure of the disinfection lamp.

Direct exposure

In addition to the requirement for direct exposure, the dosage and duration of exposure to UVC radiation can vary depending on the surface area and the type of virus or bacteria. Many UV disinfection lamps sold for home use are designed to emit a very low dose of UVC radiation which could take even longer to potentially inactivate pathogens.

Safety concerns

Direct exposure to UV disinfection lamps can also cause harm to human skin and eyes. A UV disinfection lamp should not be used in the direct vicinity of human exposure due to these safety concerns. This is one reason why UV disinfection lamps are often used inside air ducts and HVAC systems to purify the air and eliminate harmful airborne germs without risking harmful exposure to humans.

Using UV disinfection lighting in air vents and HVAC systems is a common and safe way for many people and businesses to experience the benefits of UVC germicidal radiation without any of the risks. Disinfection UV light installed in HVAC systems provides many benefits, which include:

• Purifies and improves indoor air quality

• Sterilizes and eliminates viruses, bacteria, and mold

• Provides 99.99% surface disinfection

• Improves efficiency of HVAC equipment

• Disinfects coils in the drain pan

• No touch, no chemical disinfection

Air disinfection UV light systems are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful airborne pathogens.

Not all UV lights for disinfecting are created in the same way, and effective UVC germicidal lamps must emit a very specific wavelength. 254 nm lamps have been the standard wavelength for germicidal effectiveness, although far UVC 222 nm lamps are gaining in popularity due to many advantages. Far UVC, Excimer lamps provide the same germicidal effectiveness, if not greater, in some applications while causing less damage to skin and eyes.

This blog post appeared originally here

What are the Benefits of UV Quartz Sleeves?

UV quartz sleeves are a protective jacket that fits around ultraviolet (UV) lamps to protect the lamps as well as protect people against the hazards of UV lamp breakage. Quartz sleeves for UV lamps are a smart investment that can be applied to many different types of UVC germicidal lamps such as standard lamps, amalgam lamps and high-output (HO) lamps. There are various types of UV quartz sleeves such as open ends or closed ends which are also called dome sleeves. Saw cut, fire polished and other custom quartz sleeve shapes are available.

UV Quartz Sleeves Protect Lamps, People, and the Environment

Adding UV quartz sleeves protects the lamps against damage from water, air, leakage, fluctuations in temperature and breakage which can cause injury and environmental contamination. Quartz sleeves protect UV lamps in a wide variety of applications and are particularly useful to protect UVC germicidal lamps. UV quartz sleeves can be installed on germicidal lamps used in UV air sterilization, water disinfection, and surface sterilization systems.

Quartz Sleeves Protect in Any Environment

UV quartz sleeves are useful to protect UVC germicidal lamps in many different industries and applications such as:

• Surface disinfection systems

• Water sterilization systems

• Air purification units

• Photochemical reactors

• Many specialized sterilization systems

LightSources is a worldwide supplier of ultraviolet (UV) lamps and lighting solutions providing high quality UV lamps, proprietary technologies that extends useful life and quartz sleeves for added protection. Quartz sleeves are beneficial when lamps are used in small places  and can be designed to protect two-tube linear lamps and custom-designed lamps in a variety of shapes and sizes.  LightSources offers OEM-oriented solutions with custom design, engineering, and development to meet specific germicidal requirements and UV quartz sleeves to provide long-lasting protection.

LightSources offers high-quality, high-tech, specialty UV lamps and lighting solutions. Our proprietary technology extends lamp life with high-performance and our quartz sleeves protect lamps in many different environments. Contact us to learn more about the many UV lamp solutions we offer including lamp protection with UV quartz sleeves.

UV Protection Against Germs in Malls and Theaters

The global pandemic that started in 2020 created an urgency for public officials and business owners to protect people on their property and in confined spaces. While social distancing, handwashing, and mask wearing are all recommended measures to prevent the spread of disease, providing a sanitary environment where people gather is a must. Business owners increased cleaning and disinfecting measures and explored new sterilization techniques like ultraviolet (UV) light.

UV lamps designed to emit UV electromagnetic radiation in the UVC range have been used for decades to eliminate the threat of viruses, bacteria, and various harmful microorganisms. UVC germicidal lamps are used in air purification systems, water disinfection, and surface sterilization systems worldwide. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) has been used in upper room air disinfection systems for decades and was a popular measure to protect people against tuberculosis in the 1950s.

UV Germicidal Lamps Help the Entertainment Industry 

With much evidence to back up the effectiveness of UVC germicidal lamps, the entertainment industry has looked to UV technology to remain open during the pandemic and protect patrons. Research has shown that UVC radiation when emitted at the right wavelength and for the proper time period eliminates many types of viruses and bacteria including stubborn antibiotic-resistant bacteria and viruses including beta corona viruses such as MERS, SARS and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. 

Germicidal UV lamps are proven to help prevent airborne transmission of disease in air purification systems and can be used in HVAC systems as well as upper room UVGI systems.  Surface sterilization can include handheld countertop disinfection devices or sophisticated UV robots that roam areas of unoccupied spaces.  UV disinfection systems must utilize quality UVC germicidal lamps for maximum effectiveness.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of high quality, high-tech UVC germicidal lamps. We design, engineer, and manufacture UV lamps for sterilization in a variety of applications and industries with custom development and prototype solutions available. Contact us to learn more about sourcing high-quality, long-lasting UVC germicidal lamps for malls, theaters, and public places.

Where are UV Light Bulbs Used?

Ultraviolet (UV) light bulbs are used in many industries and applications, providing such a broad range of solutions to so many environments it is difficult to list them all. UV light is not visible to the human eye, scientists and lighting engineers replicate the shortwave electromagnetic radiation when manufacturing UV lamps. Custom phosphor blends and lamp design and engineering provide visibility of the UV radiation, which is typically not detectable by the human eye.

UV light, when emitted by the sun, is typically categorized into three areas, UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is the shortest wavelength and is completely absorbed by the ozone layer, never reaching the surface of the earth. UVC light is also known to possess highly effective germicidal properties to sterilize surfaces, water, and the air.  UVA and UVB lamps are also used for a wide range of purposes, with ultraviolet light bulbs providing a healthier and safer environment for the human race in many ways.

Common UV Light Bulb Applications

Some of the most common applications where UV lamps are utilized include:

UV curing - ultraviolet light is known to quickly cure certain coatings, glazes, adhesives, lacquers, and varnishes in an instant, providing a durable and smooth surface. This speeds up industrial processes in many industries and creates higher-quality products with quick curing, less evaporation, and less contamination.

UV germicidal - ultraviolet light emitted in the short wave range of UVC is known to provide very effective germicidal properties and can eliminate viruses, bacteria, and harmful microorganisms in a matter of seconds. UVC germicidal lamps are used in air purification systems, water, and surface sterilization systems, and many environments such as schools, laboratories, hospitals, and many commercial and residential environments. Germicidal UVC lamps are known to eliminate superbugs that are resistant to antibiotics and are also effective against beta coronaviruses, including MERS, SARS, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. 

Phototherapy - UV lamps bring healing to patients suffering from many conditions, offering hope and effective treatment to people suffering from many skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. UV light bulbs also provide healing to people with mood disorders and depression and are used to treat babies born with neonatal jaundice. 

Tanning - UV light tubes used for tanning are one of the most commonly recognized UV lamps in service. UV tanning lamps are quite different from phototherapy and germicidal lamps, and not all UV lamps are created equal.

It is important to source your UV lamps from a reputable UV lamp manufacturer.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV lamp solutions used in a broad range of applications worldwide. We employ the leading high-tech lighting and UV lamp engineers, combined with a state-of-the-art glass factory and a commitment to delivering innovative, energy-efficient, and cost-saving UV lighting solutions. Contact us with any questions and learn how to improve your UV lamp application with quality UV light bulbs and tubes.

Where Is UV Light on the Electromagnetic Spectrum?

Electromagnetic energy travels in waves and covers a very wide spectrum from short gamma rays to long radio waves, with x-rays, visible light, and UV light in between. Only a small portion of this electromagnetic spectrum is visible light that the human eye can detect. An x-ray machine detects a different portion of the spectrum, and a radio detects yet another portion of this spectrum. 

People use electromagnetic energy every day, when they send a text message, watch television, listen to the radio, or use a microwave oven. The world as we know it would not exist without electromagnetic energy.

UV Light and Visible Light

Ultraviolet (UV) light is actually not visible to the human eye, with shorter wavelengths than visible light. Visible light can be seen at wavelengths measuring from about 400 to 700 nm, with 400 nm light being purple or violet in color. UV light is emitted in shorter wavelengths in the range of 100 to 400 nm, closest to the violet color on the visible spectrum, thus is coined beyond violet, or ultraviolet.

UVA, UVB, & UVC

Ultraviolet radiation has many practical uses and provides many benefits to industries and applications to help the human race.  Ultraviolet light is further broken down into three categories, UVA, UVB, and UVC light.  UVC is the shortest wavelength and, when emitted from the sun, is completely absorbed by the ozone layer, although it is proven to provide powerful germicidal properties. 

Scientists and lighting engineers replicate UVC radiation when manufacturing UVC bulbs that provide powerful germicidal properties in many environments, including air disinfection, surface, and water sterilization. UVB lamps are commonly used in many medical phototherapy applications, bringing relief to a wide range of people suffering from skin disorders, acne, psoriasis, and eczema, and also helping people with mood disorders and depression. UVA lamps are also useful in medical phototherapy applications and are also the commonly known black light. Black lights do much more than illuminate psychedelic posters, they help crime scene investigators identify organic material and bodily fluids and help prevent fraud with currency validation.

No matter what type of UV light bulbs you require, working with a reputable UV lamp manufacturer is the best way to ensure quality lamps, as not all UV lamps are created equal.

LightSources is recognized as a leading global supplier of UV light bulbs with a wide selection of standard shapes and sizes and custom options available, including UV light tubes, U-shaped lamps, and custom designs. Contact us to learn more about the many UV lamp solutions we provide with high-quality, and high-tech UV lamp engineering.

UV Disinfection Lamps in HVAC Systems

Ultraviolet (UV) lamps designed to emit UVC radiation have long been used for effective disinfection and sterilization purposes. Lighting engineers re-create UVC light which is naked to the human eye, and the shortest wave of UV light that is fully absorbed by the ozone layer. UVC radiation packs powerful germ-killing properties and quickly kills a variety of viruses, bacteria, and microorganisms within seconds of contact.

UVC lights have been used in many disinfection applications for decades, such as air purification systems, water disinfection systems, and surface sterilization applications. 

Benefits of UVC Lamps in Air Purification Systems

UVC lamps in air purification systems prevent many airborne diseases by purifying the air and cleansing air from harmful contaminants while circulating and exposed to UVC lamps. UV lamps in HVAC systems are becoming more popular as many people realize the benefits of removing harmful contaminants from the air and preventing airborne disease.

Germicidal UV lamps in HVAC units provide additional benefits of protecting equipment and air condenser coils against the formation and buildup of mold and mildew. UVC lamps are known to prevent mold and mildew, which helps equipment to run smoother, more efficiently, and last longer.

How UVC Lamps Kill Airborne Viruses

UVC radiation quickly penetrates the DNA of harmful cells, altering the genetic makeup of these microorganisms, which renders them unable to reproduce. Cells that cannot reproduce are rendered harmless without the needed proteins to replicate or survive. Many studies show high efficacy with germ-killing properties of UVC germicidal lamps in air purification and HVAC systems.

UVC lamps should only be installed by a professional in HVAC systems as exposure to UVC radiation can be harmful to human eyes and skin. 

LightSources and valued partner LightTech are leading UV lamp global suppliers offering high-quality, high-tech germicidal lamps designed to meet specific disinfection requirements. We offer custom design and development with custom phosphor blends, prototype development, and OEM-oriented solutions. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about the many benefits of quality UVC lamps in HVAC systems.

UV Light Improves Food Safety with UV Irradiation

Ultraviolet (UV) light is useful in many applications providing benefits far beyond illumination. UV light in the UVC range is known to provide powerful germ-killing properties for disinfection and sterilization in many environments. UVC germicidal lamps are used in many germ-killing applications, such as UV air purification, surface sterilization, and water disinfection.

UV lamps are very useful in food and beverage processing applications to prevent a variety of foodborne illnesses, protect against infestation from harmful pathogens, and preserve food keeping it fresher longer.

UV Food Irradiation FDA Approved

UV food irradiation has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, FDA,  for decades and is proven to be an entirely safe method to treat food products. UV food irradiation helps food processing plants to ensure foods are free from harmful diseases such as listeria, which can be found in raw foods and processed meats, vegetables, and dairy products. 

These foods can become contaminated after food processing, and using UV disinfection methods on food processing conveyor belts helps to keep contact surfaces sterile without using harsh chemicals. UV food irradiation helps to prevent listeria during final food packaging for many ready-to-eat foods.

UV Irradiation Protects Many Food Types

UV irradiation protects many types of foods and beverages, providing many benefits to food and beverage processors such as:

• Prevents insect infestation in grains, nuts, vegetables, or dried fruit

• Prevents potatoes, garlic, and onions from premature sprouting

• Prolongs freshness and extends shelf life, especially for bread and dairy products

• Prevents mold and mildew from accumulating on liquid sugar tanks

• Preserves nutritional value in food items

• Slows down the process of aging and ripening

• Reduces microorganisms found in herbs and spices

• Prevents listeria on conveyor belts, a big risk for ready-to-eat and meat food processors

• Reduces risk of health hazards from foodborne illnesses, particularly in meat, seafood, and poultry

UV food irradiation provides these benefits and more to ensure healthier food products with safer food processing. UV food irradiation reduces the need for chemical cleaners and additives, which are always a concern in the food and beverage industry. UVC lamps provide powerful benefits to food processors that improve food safety and reduce the risk of contaminated food, improving the bottom line with less waste.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps found in many sterilization applications, including food irradiation. Our lighting engineers possess deep technical knowledge of UVC electromagnetic radiation and custom design lamps to meet specific wavelength requirements. Contact us with any questions and to improve any germicidal application, including food irradiation with quality UVC lamps.

Excimer Lamp Application And Uses

The term Excimer lamp refers to ultraviolet lamps that are specially designed to emit UV radiation in the wavelength range of 170 nm to approximately 230 nm. The wavelength emission depends on the noble gas excimers present in the lamp. Excimer lamps are popular for generating far UVC, typically in the specific range of 222 nm, an ideal range for UV disinfection, although they are capable of producing other ranges for use in applications. 

Excimer lamps designed to emit UV radiation in the range of 172 nm are commonly used for UV curing applications and when designed to emit 185 nm, are known to create ozone.

Excimer Lamps at 222 nm for Sterilization

Conventional UVC germicidal lamps typically emit radiation in the range of 254 nm, which is highly effective for germicidal applications, although is unsafe for use in the presence of humans. Far UVC at 222 nm is proven just as effective, if not more than 254 nm in some germicidal applications and offers the benefit of safe usage in occupied spaces. 222 nm Excimer lamps are proven just as effective at eliminating threats of stubborn viruses such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

UV Surface Activation at 172 nm with Excimer lamps 

UV Excimer lamps designed to emit 172 nm radiation are used primarily for UV curing and surface activation industrial applications. Ultraviolet radiation at 172 nm alters surface energy to allow for improved adhesion of coatings to substrates. UV lamps at 172 nm deliver electromagnetic energy to alter organic molecule bonds to improve adhesion and UV curing applications without altering physical surface properties. 

Excimer Lamps for Ozone Production at 185 nm

Ultraviolet lamps designed to emit UV radiation in the range of 185 nm are known to produce ozone and effective oxidizer and deodorizer. Ozone lamps are commonly used in water and air sterilization systems to purify the air and eliminate the threat of airborne diseases while also removing foul odors.

LightSources offers a wide range of ultraviolet lamp solutions for many industries and applications, including UV sterilization, UV curing, and ozone production. We offer custom design, engineering, and manufacturing, including prototype development focusing on OEM-oriented solutions. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about the many benefits of Excimer lamps.

UVB Phototherapy Lamps for Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder which causes white patches to appear on the skin due to a progressive loss of melanocytes, melanin forming cells. These colorless patches on the skin have distinct margins, are non-scaly, and typically will get larger over time. They may also appear inside of the nose and mouth, and loss of color can also affect hair and facial hair.

UVB Lamps for Vitiligo Provide Successful Treatment

Ultraviolet, UV lamps designed to emit narrow band UVB give patients hope for a positive prognosis when properly administered. UVB lamps for vitiligo are considered safe under the proper direction and are typically administered in the office of a dermatologist. Ultraviolet lamps are most effective at restoring skin pigmentation on patients with vitiligo on the neck and face; white patches on fingertips, toes, and the lips are less responsive to UVB phototherapy.

Narrowband UVB Proven Effective Treatment for Vitiligo

Narrowband UVB lamps were shown to provide nearly 75% repigmentation on 63% of patients receiving phototherapy for vitiligo twice per week over the course of one year in this study published by the National Library of medicine. Narrowband UVB lamps were shown to be more effective than another popular treatment with UVA lamps and Psoralen medication, referred to as PUVA. Patients should speak with their doctor to determine the best course of action for their type of vitiligo.

LightSources Offers Phototherapy Lamps for Vitiligo

LightSources is a leading global supplier of specialty fluorescent and ultraviolet lamps used in a variety of applications, including medical phototherapy treatment. We offer UVA and UVB phototherapy lamps for vitiligo and many other skin diseases, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema.  LightSources employs the leading high-tech lamp designers and engineers, offering a wide range of UVC germicidal lamp solutions used in many disinfection applications worldwide, such as air purification systems, surface sterilization, and water disinfection.

LightSources leads the way with UV lamp solutions offering a wide range of lamp types and styles as well as custom design, engineering, and manufacturing. Our lighting engineers offer capabilities to create custom phosphor blends to meet your exact wavelength emission specifications. Contact us to learn more about medical phototherapy lamps, including UVB lamps for vitiligo.

What Conditions Do Medical Phototherapy Lamps Treat?

Ultraviolet light has many useful purposes, with UV electromagnetic radiation providing germicidal and healing properties.  Medical phototherapy is the process of using various wavelengths of UV light to treat certain conditions. UV phototherapy lamps are useful in treating and providing relief to a variety of ailments and illnesses. 

Phototherapy lamps are proven to treat many health conditions, including:

Neonatal jaundice - UV lamps are the main source of treatment to break down bilirubin in the blood that occurs when an infant’s liver is not yet fully capable of breaking down the toxins in the body.  “Bili” lights help the baby’s body and prevent brain damage. 

Mood disorders, depression – many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the winter months with less sunlight. Light therapy lamps help to treat depression which can be mild to severe and can improve symptoms of fatigue, lack of interest, and many other depressive symptoms. 

Sleep disorders – phototherapy lamps treat sleep disorders, including jet lag, by helping the body to regulate the natural circadian rhythm. 

Light therapy lamps also treat a host of skin conditions and are prescribed by dermatologists to ensure the right wavelength is used to treat specific conditions such as: 

Acne – UV light is proven to help treat acne, which affects nearly 60 million people in the U.S. Topical treatments can minimize symptoms, but many are ineffective, leaving people looking for help. Combinations of red and blue light therapy have been proven successful in treating acne to reduce outbreaks and lessen the severity of symptoms. 

Eczema – UV light is useful for successfully treating eczema with UVA, UVB, and narrow-band UVB wavelengths that reduce symptoms and help to clear skin. 

Psoriasis – light therapy helps to treat psoriasis by successfully lessening the severity of symptoms and preventing outbreaks.  Sometimes medication called Psoralen is used in conjunction with UVA and UVB wavelengths to help absorption for successful treatment. 

Vitiligo – UV lights treat vitiligo which is a skin condition that leaves white patches on the skin due to a loss of melanin. Narrowband UVB lamps are a popular way to treat vitiligo and help repigment skin cells.

Ultraviolet medical phototherapy lights are used to treat these conditions and others, such as helping wounds to heal by increasing blood circulation and preventing infection. Photodynamic therapy, PDT, is a treatment where UV blue light is used in conjunction with medications to treat certain types of cancer and kill cancer cells or tumors of atypical growth. 

As you can see, ultraviolet lamps have vast healing power, although the right type of lamp with the correct wavelength must be used to treat each condition. It is important to use light therapy correctly under a physician’s care. 

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV and fluorescent lamps using medical phototherapy as well as germicidal applications. Our UVC germicidal lamps are used worldwide to sterilize and disinfect in air purification systems, water treatment systems, and surface sterilization applications. Contact us to speak with an engineer about our many phototherapy lamps and our ability to design, engineer, and produce custom-designed wavelengths to meet your specific requirements.

How is Far UVC 222 nm Light Safer than 254 nm UV lamps?

Ultraviolet light emitted in the UVC range (100-280 nm) is highly effective at eliminating harmful germs with standard germicidal lamps designed to emit wavelengths close to the 254 nm range. The specific wavelength is proven to be highly effective at eliminating many harmful pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, mold, fungi, and other microorganisms. Germicidal UVC lamps are used in UV air treatment systems, water purification and surface sterilization systems worldwide. 

The standard germicidal lamps, however, cannot be used in the presence of humans due to the risk of damage to human skin and eyes.

222 Nm Far UVC Lamps Are Safer Than Standard Germicidal Lamps

UVC light emitted precisely at 222 nm is also called Far UVC and is proven to have the same germicidal effectiveness without the risk of human exposure. 222 nm UV light is highly absorbed by the DNA of cells, similar to how cells absorb UV light when in the range of 254 nm. 222 nm light is also absorbed by the proteins that surround the cells, which differs from 254 nm light. 

Proteins are contained in the cell outer membranes of bacteria and viruses, and because they absorb 222 nm UV light, the harmful radiation cannot penetrate into the thick layer of human cells. This protective layer is also found on the eyes, making 222 nm light safer for exposure to human skin and eyes, allowing for use in occupied spaces.

Far UVC lamps designed to emit 222 nm are currently in use in many applications, including medical facilities, hospitals, public spaces, and commercial uses providing effective sterilization and disinfection without the risk of causing harm to human health.

LightSources and LightTech are leading global suppliers of UVC germicidal lamps designed for a wide range of industries and applications. We offer custom design and engineering, and prototype development and are currently developing Excimer lamps to produce Far UVC in the range of 222 nm UV light. 

LightSources offers custom design and prototype development to meet unique customer specifications. Excimer lamps to produce far UVC light are currently in development at LightSources. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about all her germicidal solutions  including the efficacy and safety of 222 nm UV light.

How Effective is Far UVC Light at 222 nm?

Far UVC is ultraviolet (UV) light in the range of 207–222 nm, which are shorter wavelengths than the traditional 254 nm UVC lamps.  Interest in far UVC technology is increasing with more research and awareness of the many benefits of UVC lamps engineered to emit wavelengths in the far UVC range. Far UVC wavelengths are shown to provide the same germicidal effectiveness with many benefits such as improved safety. 

Safety of Far UVC vs. Traditional 254 nm UV Lamps

Traditional 254 nm lamps emit powerful UVC radiation highly effective for germicidal applications, although cannot be used when people are present in the room. Traditional UVC sterilization systems must be operated in a closed system, with precautionary measures to shut off automatically if a person enters the room because they can damage human eyes and skin. Far UVC 222 nm lamps emit shorter wavelengths that are shown to operate safely without causing harm to human eyes and skin. 

Far UVC 222 nm Lamp Effectiveness

Far UVC lamps are also shown to be highly effective at killing the same types of viruses, bacteria, and harmful pathogens as traditional UV germicidal lamps, influenza, alpha, and beta coronaviruses. One study conducted by various universities showed that far UVC technology effectively eliminated the threat of airborne bacteria, S. Aureus, while continually spraying into a room. The far UVC lamps and overhead systems eliminated 98% of airborne microbes even though they were continually spraying into the room.

This study and others like it so that the future is bright for far UVC light, with effective disinfection that can be used continually as opposed to only when people are not in the room.

LightSources is a leader in the UVC lamp industry with a wide range of traditional 254 nm UV lamps and custom design and engineering to meet specific wavelength emissions. Our UVC germicidal lamps can be found worldwide in surface, water, and air purification systems. Contact us to learn more about UVC germicidal technology including far UVC lamps.

Custom Designed 254 nm UV Lamps

254 nm UV lamps describe the most common type of UVC germicidal lamps used to disinfect the air, water, and surfaces.  Ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted in the UVC range, between 100 to 280 nm, is proven to be most effective at eradicating harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.  UVC lamps are designed to emit UV radiation in the range of 254 nm quickly and effectively penetrate the cells of harmful microbes, altering the DNA and rendering these cells unable to replicate, thus considered harmless.

UVC lamps are used in many environments and applications such as in hospitals, in patient rooms, and operating rooms, to disinfect medical equipment and supplies.  Germicidal UVC lamps are also used to sterilize the air in many industrial, commercial, and residential environments including in HVAC units, furnaces, and air conditioning systems.  Many surface sterilization systems utilize the power of UVC radiation as well as water disinfection UVC systems. 

254 nm UVC Lamp Design and Engineering

254 nm UVC lamps are designed in basically three different glass types including: 

• Soft Glass

• Fused Quartz

• Synthetic Fused Quartz

Soft glass provides a lower-cost option for powerful UVC germicidal lamps that transmit UVC radiation at 254 nm only.  

Fused Quartz is available in two types, “L” for low ozone emission or “VH” for very high ozone emissions. “L” fused quartz 254 nm UV lamps by LightSources are designed to emit up to 90% of the UVC energy at 254 nm.  VH lamps can emit both 185nm and 254nm with custom engineering available to splice both L and VH ratios to meet specific germicidal requirements. 

Synthetic fused quartz lamps provide superior UV transmission at 185nm for very high ozone-producing applications. 

LightSources offers both 185nm and 254nm UV lamps for germicidal applications worldwide as a leading global supplier of UVC sterilization lamp solutions.

LightSources is an industry-leading provider of quality UV lamps for surface, water, and air purification systems.  We offer UVC lamps for UV robots and a wide range of applications that require 254nm UVC technology.  Contact us to learn more about our standard and custom-designed options for 254 nm UV lamps. 

UVC Lamps for Disinfection Robots

UV disinfection robots have become quite a bit more popular in recent years as they are highly effective at eliminating germs and there is an increased need for sterilization in many environments. Autonomous roaming robots with germicidal UV lamps are used in the United States, Europe, Asia, and many other countries worldwide to help provide a safer environment for people. UVC robots are proven effective when used in addition to manual cleaning procedures to eradicate harmful viruses and bacteria with up to 99.99% efficacy.

UVC disinfection robots equipped with high-quality sterilization lamps emit UV wavelengths at precisely the right nanometer of 254 nm which is the most powerful germ-killing wavelength of UV radiation. These UVC robots are being utilized in many hospitals across the country. They can roam around a room and emit powerful UVC radiation which can eliminate harmful viruses and bacteria on surfaces such as countertops, hospital beds, bathrooms, and high-touch surface areas to quickly and effectively protect patients and staff.

UVC disinfection robots can be programmed to follow a particular path to operate in rooms when humans are not present, without human intervention. They can even go back to their charging station when they need to recharge, automatically helping to provide a cleaner and safer environment.

UVC Lamps for Disinfection Robots

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps produced for a wide range of sterilization and disinfection applications. We offer a wide variety of sterilization lamps including fluorescent, low-pressure mercury, and compact CFL bulbs for many germicidal applications. Our germicidal lamps can be found in air purification systems, surface sterilization products and water disinfection applications worldwide.

We offer UVC germicidal lamps for UV disinfection robots, proven to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses and even antibiotic-resistant viruses such as MRSA and C.Diff. UVC germicidal lamps are also proven effective on many types of coronaviruses including the SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19. 

The LightSources group designs, engineers, and manufactures high-tech, high-quality UVC germicidal lamps with custom design options available. We offer prototype development and proprietary technology that provides longer-lasting germicidal effectiveness up to the end of lamp life. Contact us to learn more about UVC sterilization lamps for UV disinfection robots. \

UV Food Irradiation Proven to Improve Food Safety

Ultraviolet (UV) light produces electromagnetic UV radiation which has known germicidal and sterilization effects. UV irradiation has many purposes and preventing foodborne illnesses is one important sterilization process that UV light provides to food processors with many health benefits to end-users. UV lamps which emit radiation in the UVC wavelength help to protect against harmful pathogens which can infest food products and keep food fresher longer. 

How Does UV Radiation Protect Food?

When food and beverage products are exposed to UV radiation, powerful germ-killing UVC energy improves the safety and condition of these items. Ultraviolet radiation is absorbed through chemical bonds which protects food without altering food quality and is completely harmless, proven to improve the safety of food and beverage items. Food processing with UV irradiation protects meat processing plants, juices, and beverage pasteurization, and extends the shelf life of produce.

UV irradiation also disinfects surfaces where food is prepared in food processing plants and restaurants around the world. UV radiation for food is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, the FDA, and is also approved by the US Department of Agriculture, USDA. UV radiation improves food safety, prevents many foodborne illnesses, and preserves foods to last longer, extending the shelf life of various products without risk of disease.

What Types of Foods Are Protected with UV Radiation?

UVC germicidal lamps produce UV irradiation to protect a wide range of food and beverage products by providing the following benefits:

• Prevents infestation of insects in grains, vegetables, nuts, and fruits

• Prevents mold and mildew from accumulating on liquid sugar tanks

• Prevents onions, garlic, and potatoes from sprouting early

• Reduces risk of foodborne illnesses in poultry, meat, and seafood

• Prevents harmful bacteria and viruses such as listeria from developing on conveyor belts which is a serious issue for ready to eat food processors

UVC germicidal lamps are proven effective in food processing applications as well as many other types of sterilization and disinfection processes. UV sterilization lamps improve indoor air quality in public, commercial, industrial, and residential settings with UVC air purification systems. UVC lamps also remove harmful microorganisms and many water sterilization applications such as water treatment plants, pools and spas, Aqua sciences and many other water applications. Surface sterilization is important in many settings such as hospitals, restaurants, laboratories, and many others and is achieved with UVC germicidal lamps.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamp solutions in a wide range of fluorescent, and low-pressure mercury sterilization lamps. We offer custom design and engineering, prototype development, and meet production requirements for OEMs worldwide. Contact us to learn more about high-tech, high quality UVC lamps for food irradiation.

Custom Bases and Sockets for Germicidal Lamps

Customizing lamp bases and sockets allows lamp manufacturers like LightSources greater flexibility to design and engineer lighting solutions with added value. Customizing bases can include matching specific colors for your brand or logo, with endless possibilities to conform all your UV lamps to your corporate identity guidelines. Customized base configurations improve your brand identity and/or sales potential with exclusive, proprietary lamp solutions just for you.

UVC germicidal lamps are typically supplied with ceramic bases as this is the best material to withstand the intense ultraviolet radiation or ozone produced by germicidal lamps. Ceramic bases provide additional resistance to moisture and heat and give germicidal lamps long-lasting, high-quality performance. 

Custom Compact Lamps Meet Your System Needs

Other materials are also available for custom lamp bases such as a metal/ceramic hybrid or even plastic. LightSources can customize lead wire configurations, pin locations, steps and contours. We offer complete design assistance with 3D model CAD capability and partner with you to design, engineer, and prototype germicidal lamps that meet your unique specifications. We help OEMs to design lamps that fit their system, rather than designing a system around existing lamp types.

Our lighting engineers possess in-depth, deep technical knowledge of lamp design, fluorescent and UVC radiation expertise. We offer proprietary technology developed from our innovative drive to continue to offer first to market lighting solutions that outlast and outperform existing options.  

The electrical output and mechanical characteristics can vary widely with different lamp design requirements. Our engineers are skilled in meeting your requirements with high-performance, long-lasting, and cost-efficient customized lamp design and engineering requirements. Our valued partner Cerlux offers a wide range of custom lamp base solutions including high-quality ceramic bases in the color of your choice.

LightSources leads the industry in designing and engineering custom UV lamps including fluorescent, low-pressure mercury, and amalgam germicidal lamps to meet demanding industry applications. UVC germicidal lamps are proven in water, surface and air sterilization systems worldwide. Contact us to learn more about improving your lighting needs with customized lamps, bases and sockets.

Compact, CFL Bulbs with Plug-In Versatility

Compact fluorescent bulbs, also known as CFL bulbs, are becoming more popular in many applications.  CFL lamps come in a wide variety of sizes to meet different needs such as for commercial, industrial, and residential uses.  CFL lamps can also be designed to emit UVC radiation for germicidal applications, which is also increasing in demand as technology allows for customizing lamp sizes and shapes to accommodate many different styles of disinfection and sterilization systems. 

PLL and PLS Compact Lights

Compact lamps are often in one of two categories, either PLL (plug-in long) version or PLS (plug-in short) version. PLS lights are common in accentuating architecture or fine pieces of art.  CFL bulbs like PLS lamps are also used for security measures, in offices, homes, or for illuminating exterior signs.  PLS fluorescent lamps are found in many places and provide long-lasting, pleasing light with very cost-efficient performance. 

UVC PLS Lamps

PLS germicidal lamps are common in sterilization systems that demand powerful UV sterilization but in a limited space. UVC radiation emitted at precisely 254 nm is proven effective at killing many types of germs and harmful microorganisms. UVC germicidal lamps are used in water sterilization systems and can even kill bacteria that chlorine cannot. UV sterilization lamps in hospitals can even eliminate bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics, considered superbugs. 

UVC sterilization lamps are common in many air purification systems and can be installed in upper room UVGI air sterilization systems and are also installed in HVAC systems. UVC lamps in furnaces and air conditioning systems require powerful sterilization lamps in tight spaces. UVC PLS lamps provide effective sterilization when space is an issue.

LightSources Offers PLL and PLS Lamps with Endless Options

LightSources offers high-quality CFL bulbs in PLL and PLS lamp types with endless possibilities for custom configurations. Most PLL lamps are either 2-pin or 4-pin, although LightSources offers custom configurations with various sizes and customized sockets and bases.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of high quality UV lamps found in a wide range of lighting applications. We meet the needs of OEMs of all sizes with prototype solutions and high quality, on-time production.  Contact us to learn more about designing and engineering custom CFL lamps to meet your needs with PL and PLS light solutions.

Custom Designed Compact UV Lamps

Compact UV lamps provide many benefits for applications that require UV lighting in small spaces. Compact UVC lamps provide germicidal effectiveness, emailing powerful UV radiation with all the features of larger counterparts packed neatly into a small space. Compact UV lamps provide a wide range of possibilities to provide germicidal efficacy to surfaces, air, and water.

The LightSources group offers compact UV lamps designed and engineered with varying options such as a two-tube linear design which delivers uniform output, your choice of soft glass or quartz glass, ozone or non-ozone emitting lamps, and proprietary technologies available.

Compact UV Lamps in Soft Glass

Soft Glass compact UVC lamps deliver sterilization and disinfection effectiveness at 254nm to small spaces.  254nm is the UVC wavelength determined to provide the greatest germicidal efficacy. Soft Glass compact lamps designed by LightSources provide maximum operating efficiency and are proven to effectively kill pathogens such as bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and harmful microorganisms on surfaces, in the air and in water.

Compact UV Lamps In Quartz

Compact UVC lamps made in Quartz are available in both 185 nm ozone lamps as well as 254 nm germicidal lamps. Quartz low pressure mercury discharge lamps are designed to emit the maximum amount of UVC radiation allowing approximately 90% of UVC energy at 254nm to provide greatest germicidal effectiveness.

Compact UVC Lamps with Amalgam Technology

LightSources offers compact UVC lamps designed with our proprietary Emil gam technology, delivering outstanding UVC efficiency and exceptional value. 

The LightSources group includes the leading high-tech UV lamp designers and engineers combined with a state-of-the-art glass factory and allows for custom engineering with quick turnaround time. Our lamp designers and engineers possess deep technical knowledge of UVC radiation and lamp manufacturing to customize phosphor blends and more to specifically meet your application requirements.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps, fluorescent and mercury discharge lamps, and custom design solutions. We support OEMs with custom design, engineering, and manufacturing, ISO9001:2015 quality policies and quick turnaround time. Contact us to learn more about our custom compact UV lamps with all the germicidal effectiveness packed into a small space.

Does Ultraviolet Light Reduce TOC’s?

Total Organic Carbon, TOC, refers to organic carbon compounds found in water and may include man-made compounds, natural or altered product, or synthetic material. TOCs may contain bacteria and harmful materials or pathogens that could cause damage, system failure or health consequences if not effectively removed. Identifying and measuring concentration of TOC’s and water and practicing TOC reduction methods protects consumers, the environment, and many industries.

Removal of TOCs is critical in many applications where high-purity water is important for process quality. TOC reduction is important in: 

• Pharmaceutical industry processes

• Wastewater treatment

• Food and beverage industry

• Semiconductor and microelectronics production 

The impact of TOCs such as bacteria and other organic compounds can have serious negative effects on these processes and others. 

How UV Lamps Reduce TOCs

Ultraviolet, UV, lamps have been used for more than 100 years to eliminate harmful viruses and bacteria in many disinfection applications.  UVC lamps effectively kill microorganisms on surfaces, in the air and in water. UV lamps for TOC reduction remove harmful TOCs from water sources for many applications. 

Some TOC removal lamps utilize 185 nanometer (nm) emissions to produce ozone, which is a powerful oxidizer. Ozone lamps leads to oxidation of the total organic compounds which is the chemical reaction caused by 185 nm UV lamps.  TOCs are ionized by UV lamps and are then removed by a deionization process. 

Benefits of UV Lamps for TOC Reduction

UV lamps for TOC reduction provide many benefits in addition to delivering an effective, safe and reliable method to purify water.  UV lamps which are designed to emit wavelengths in the 254 nm range are the most effective germicidal lamps, and also remove viruses, bacteria, mold and other harmful pathogens including TOCs.  UV lamps for TOC reduction provide:

• Germicidal efficacy

• Low maintenance costs

• Low operational costs

• Can be used in air, water, and surfaces indoors or outdoors

• Produce no harmful byproducts such as with chemicals 

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV lamps for germicidal applications in air, water, and surfaces. We provide high-quality, high-tech UVC germicidal lamps and UV lamps for TOC reduction.  Contact us to learn more about our UV germicidal lamps and TOC removal.