UV Water Purifier Using UVC Radiation

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-water-purifier/

A UV water purifier is an extremely effective and cost-efficient method of purifying and disinfecting water for various applications.  UVC radiation is used in UV water disinfection systems worldwide, proven effective at cleaning and purifying water in various forms.  Light is broken into colors and measured by wavelengths in nanometers (nm).

Ultraviolet (UV) light has shorter wavelengths than visible light measuring in the range of 10nm to 400nm, with the most effective UVC germicidal radiation occurring between 100nm to 280nm. UVC technology is used in UV water purification systems around the world to deliver a safe and highly effective method of cleansing water for numerous purposes.  

UV radiation targets the nucleic acid of the cells in bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms naked to the human eye, altering the DNA of these cells and rendering harmful contaminants completely harmless.  As the cells are destroyed, these microorganisms are unable to replicate which renders them dead as they cannot reproduce to infectious levels.

UV Water Purifier Applications  

A UV water purifier provides effective and cost-efficient water purification for a multitude of applications worldwide.  UVC germicidal technology offers technologically advanced, effective, and cost-efficient germicidal solutions for the following water applications:

• Aquaculture

• Drinking water

• Life Sciences

• Pool and Spa

• Wastewater

• Water Reclamation

• and many others  

Aqua Culture Benefits from Water Purifier Systems

UV water purifier systems offer valuable disinfection services to marine life in aquariums and hatcheries, providing safe water for fish to thrive free from dangerous bacteria and contaminants.  UVC germicidal lamps purify water with the optimum wavelength of 254nm, which effectively destroys viruses, bacteria, and harmful contaminants. UV water purification is also effective at destroying harmful contaminants and parasites such as the myxozoan parasite, preventing disease in fish in both saltwater and freshwater applications. The high-output quartz germicidal lamps and low-pressure amalgam lamps by LightSources enhance the life and well-being of fish and marine life, with the most effective and cost-efficient UV aqua culture solutions available today.

UV Water Purifier Provides Safe Drinking Water

UV radiation is utilized in municipalities to disinfect drinking water, enhancing the health and well-being of people across many populations.  UVC lamps effectively reduce chloramines and chloride in water, oxidizing water without the use of harmful by-products. Ozone-producing lamps at 185nm effectively kill virtually any virus form, while UV radiation at 254nm disinfects water by targeting cells’ DNA to eradicate any ability to reproduce. UVC lamps used in water purification systems offer many benefits over the use of chemical disinfectants.  Benefits of UV radiation for drinking water include:

• Eradicates harmful organisms instantly including those resistant to chemical disinfection such as cryptosporidium and giardia bacterium

• Organisms do not develop a resistance to UV radiation

• Effective with short radiation time

• Minimal maintenance

• No need to purchase, store, or dispose of chemicals

• Low operating costs

• Environmentally friendly

• It does not alter pH balance, odor, or taste

LightSources offers low-pressure standard quartz germicidal lamps and low-pressure high-output germicidal lamps to purify drinking water systems around the world.

Life Sciences Enhanced with UV Water Purifier

Water used in the medical industry including biotechnology and pharmaceuticals requires water purified to a mandated level to maintain clean water free from contaminants.  UV water purifiers are used in biotechnology, pharmacology, nanotechnology, genetic and medical testing, bioengineering, and medical device laboratories. The LightSources Group manufactures high-output lamps at 800mA and standard lamps at 425mA utilized in life science applications worldwide.  

Pool & Spa Water Purification

UV germicidal lamps are used to treat pool and spa water, with ozone-producing germicidal lamps purifying water 3,000 times quicker than chlorine, with no harmful chemical residue.

UV Wastewater Treatment Systems

Wastewater is defined as water that has been affected in quality by the influence of humans including varying contaminants when discharged from commercial properties, agricultural applications, and domestic residences. UVC water purifier systems effectively treat wastewater instead of chemical disinfectants to enhance public safety while meeting all federal and local strict water purification standards.

Water Reclamation with UV Water Purifiers

Water reclamation is a critical component of any water management system by eradicating pollutants from ecosystems and eliminating contaminants flowing into natural bodies of water.  Water reclamation purifies water to be recycled for other uses such as cooling power plants, mixing concrete or agricultural irrigation. Greenhouse water systems benefit from UVC germicidal technology, keeping plants healthy with clean water.   

LightSources Offers Effective and Cost-Efficient UV Water Purifier Systems

LightSources and our valued partner, LightTech, provide high-performing, industry-leading lighting solutions that deliver energy-efficient cost savings over comparable lamps.  We are dedicated to continual improvement through research and development, consistently offering cutting-edge, industry-leading UV lamp technology with high-performing patented products. Our vast resources allow us to provide timely delivery with high-quality products, supporting OEMs worldwide with UVC germicidal solutions.

LightSources and our valued partner companies represent the leading high-tech lamp designers in the industry.  Contact us today to speak with an engineer to learn more about our UVC germicidal solutions including our powerful lamps for UV water purifier systems.

How Does a UV Germ Light Work?

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/how-does-uv-germ-light-work/

If you’ve heard of a UV germ light and wondered just how effective it really is and how it works, read more to learn how a UV germicidal lamp really works.  Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is measured by wavelengths, referred to as nanometers (nm). Ultraviolet light is broken into UVA, UVB and UVC rays, based on how long the wavelengths are.  

UVA rays are found between 315nm and 400nm, UVB rays are between 280nm to 315nm, and UVC rays are shorter wavelengths measuring between 200nm to 280nm, with the most effective germicidal action found at precisely 254nm.   UV germ lights in the range of 254nm are proven to be highly effective in purification and disinfection applications, eradicating bacteria and viruses in the air, water and even on surfaces.  UVC radiation works by instantly altering the DNA of the organisms by penetrating the cells quickly within seconds of exposure. This instant exposure to UVC light renders these living cells completely harmless as they are unable to replicate.  

Short wave UVC light is the most effective type of UV radiation to damage cells and is filtered by the atmosphere, never reaching the Earth’s surface. Shorter wave UVC light at 185nm is used in UVC ozone-generating germicidal lamps, which is powerful UV radiation that actually eliminates odors in the air caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as sulfides, mercaptans, and ammonia. By penetrating the nucleic acid of the cells, they are unable to multiply or reproduce to infectious numbers, leaving them to be considered dead and inactive.  UVC light in the short wave of 185nm decompresses oxygen, O², and produces ozone, O³.  Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that destroys microorganisms within seconds of exposure.

Many Benefits of UV Germ Light Technology

There are many benefits provided by using UV germ lights instead of other disinfection methods.  UVC germicidal lamps comply with strict environmental codes and regulations, as it is completely free of chemicals and environmentally friendly.  UV germicidal lamps do not contain corrosive materials or disinfection by-products (DBPs). UV radiation is a safer technology without any hazardous side effects, providing a safe work environment for employees and eliminating the need to purchase, store, and dispose of harmful chemicals.  UV radiation is also very cost-effective, especially when using the right type of lamp designed for energy efficiency and long-lasting high performance. UV disinfection systems provide ongoing cost savings with minimal maintenance required. UV water and air purification systems are powerful, effective, and cost-efficient.

LightSources Offers Powerful UV Germ Lights for High Performance

LightSources and our valued partner, LightTech in Europe, offer powerful UV germ lights that deliver long lasting, high performance. With our vast resources, we offer patented technology in first to market UV germicidal systems which deliver the most powerful UV radiation available, in safe and cost effective UV germ lights.  

Low-Pressure Amalgam UV Germ Light

We offer Low Pressure Amalgam lamps which improve the stability of applications with ambient temperature fluctuations.  Our patented pellet and spot amalgam technology utilizes filaments specifically engineered to withstand high current operations. LightSources applies our patented LongLife+™ technology with a proprietary coating that eliminates accelerated depreciation commonly associated with high-intensity lamps.  Our proprietary technology allows for an extended operating life of up to 16,000 hours while maintaining end-of-life UVC output of up to 85%.

Low-Pressure Mercury UV Germ Lamps

LightSources offers low-pressure mercury UV germicidal lamps for a wide range of disinfection solutions.  We offer soft glass or quartz glass, ozone-generating, and ozone-free lamps in standard or high output types.  Our soft glass, low-pressure germicidal lamps can operate on lower currents in the range of 180 to 425mA, in either standard or high output styles with germicidal efficiency of 30%.   Quartz glass lamps are designed to transmit maximum UVC radiation with levels at or above 90%, at a precision of 253.7nm for maximum germ-killing effectiveness.  Also available in either standard or high output, and ozone-generating or ozone-free specifications. Quartz glass lamps provide additional durability over soft glass and are less susceptible to breaking.

High Output UVC Germ Lamps

LightSources offers standard and high-output UVC lamps that use mercury vapor to produce the UVC light.  The mercury vapor collects at the “cold spot” on the lamp and produce maximum UVC output when reaching peak temperatures.  High output (HO) lamps operate at higher currents and input wattage of 600mA to 800mA, rather than the lower 425mA. HO lamps contain heavier filaments to carry higher electrical currents.  The filaments provide more control to the cold spot and allow for maximum UVC output. LightSources is committed to providing the most effective lamps which deliver the highest rformance available in the most affordable and cost efficient design.  We are committed to continual improvement in all processes, offering patented products and proprietary technology designed to deliver maximum performance. Our skilled design engineers offer custom-developed lighting solutions for virtually any lamp or lighting application.  We understand the technology behind the product, designing, engineering and manufacturing high-tech lamp solutions that deliver maximum benefits.

UV Disinfection Eliminates Germs Chlorine Doesn’t

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-disinfection-kills-germs-chlorine-doesnt/

We’ve been hearing a lot about UV disinfection and the many uses for disinfecting air, water, and surfaces, but do you know that UV radiation can eliminate germs that chlorine does not? Ultraviolet (UV) germicidal radiation is a popular method of disinfection in many water and air purification systems, due to its highly effective disinfection properties and the many health and safety benefits. UV disinfection is fast, effective, and completely safe, providing many advantages over other methods of water disinfection such as chlorination.

In addition to the many benefits of UV disinfection systems, UV light has been proven to eradicate an extensive list of harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. One key advantage that UV purification systems offer over chlorine-based disinfection methods is the effectiveness of eliminating protozoa such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia which can be chlorine resistant. UV germicidal disinfection has proven to be highly effective at eradicating these parasites from water supplies to prevent widespread intestinal illnesses.

How Does UV Disinfection Work?

UV disinfection works by short-wave UV light causing a physical reaction to the RNA and DNA of cells in microorganisms which renders them incapable of reproducing and infecting. UV light is invisible to the human eye, falling in between visible light and X-rays on the electromagnetic spectrum. UV light is emitted by the sun, although most is absorbed by the ozone layer in the Earth’s atmosphere.

UV light is measured in wavelengths referred to as nanometers (nm), which is a billionth of a meter. UV emissions in the UVB and UVC range of 200 to 300 nm are considered germicidal, which means they are effective at inactivating microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. UVC lamps are used in disinfection applications worldwide, providing effective, safe, and environmentally friendly disinfection without the use of chemicals and harmful byproducts.

Effectiveness of UV Disinfection

UV disinfection has been proven to be highly effective with instant disinfection of pathogenic organisms such as those that cause hepatitis, cholera, typhoid, polio, and viral, intestinal parasitic diseases. UV light provides advantages over disinfection with chlorine with its ability to destroy parasites that threaten public health such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

Wastewater treatment facilities utilizing chlorine disinfection systems run the risk of releasing these dangerous organisms into rivers and lakes which may threaten public health if the same water supply is also the source of drinking water. UV disinfection used in drinking water plants helps to eradicate parasites and protozoa resistant to chlorine treatment.

Safety Advantages of UV Disinfection

UV disinfection provides many benefits over other treatment methods, which include the following:

• UV light is chemical-free and does not add any harmful or carcinogenic byproducts to water, air or the surface treated.

• UV disinfection systems eliminate the need to purchase, handle, store and dispose of corrosive or toxic chemicals, providing environmental benefits to the treatment plant and the community

• UV light is proven to be extremely effective at eradicating a wide range of harmful microorganisms including pathogens resistant to chlorine treatment

• UV radiation may be combined with hydrogen peroxide to destroy toxic chemicals while simultaneously providing effective disinfection

It is clear to see why UV light is a popular method of disinfecting water, air, and surfaces. Working with an experienced UVC lamp provider will ensure high-quality germicidal effectiveness for your application.

LightSources Offers UV Disinfection Lamps

LightSources and our valued partners are recognized for providing high-quality, high-tech UVC germicidal lamps which are proven effective across a wide range of applications. We design, engineer, and manufacture UVC germicidal lamps for effective disinfection of water, air, and surfaces. Our specialty UVC lamps are found in applications worldwide, leading the industry with first-to-market, energy-efficient germicidal solutions.

Our UVC lamps are utilized in water disinfection applications such as:

• Wastewater treatment plants

• Drinking water treatment plants

• Water reclamation

• Aquaculture

• Ballast water treatment systems

Our UVC lamps contribute to these and many other water disinfection applications, as well as air treatment systems and various disinfection applications. We provide a wide selection of standard UVC lamps as well as offering custom-designed solutions to meet your specifications. Our standard selection includes Low-Pressure UV disinfection lamps, Low Pressure Amalgam UVC lamps, Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps, electronic ballasts and quartz sleeves.

UV Water Treatment Systems are Eco Friendly and Safe

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-water-treatment-systems-are-eco-friendly-and-safe/

UV water treatment systems are used around the world to provide environmentally safe, eco-friendly water disinfection. For a water treatment system to be considered “green”, it must not add any byproducts to the water. UV water disinfection is a physical process that adds nothing to the water and does not affect the dissolved oxygen content or chemical composition of water.

UV water disinfection is therefore considered to be a sustainable, or green technology. Thousands of municipalities worldwide are adopting UV water treatment systems in the construction of new water treatment plants and by converting existing chemical treatment processes. UV water treatment is environmentally friendly, safe, and cost-effective, providing many benefits to water treatment systems.

Benefits of UV Water Treatment Systems

UV water treatment systems provide many benefits over other types of water disinfection methods, including chlorine-based processes. UV light is proven to eradicate Giardia and Cryptosporidium, microorganisms that are chlorine-resistant and proven to cause thousands of illnesses each year. UV water disinfection offers a host of advantages which include:

• Environmentally Friendly – UV water treatment is an environmentally friendly method of disinfecting water with no harmful by-products added during disinfection.

• Safe – UV light is safe for humans and poses no risks to employees handling chemicals. With UV water disinfection, there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of harmful chemicals.

• Effective – UV radiation is proven to destroy 99.99% of harmful microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, E-coli, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, salmonella, typhoid fever, infectious hepatitis, meningitis, and many other pathogens.

• FDA Approved – UV water treatment is one of four methods approved by the FDA for safe and effective water disinfection.
  Reliable – UV light works around the clock with consistent and reliable performance.

• Efficient – UV radiation instantly kills germs for fast and effective water disinfection.

• Cost-Effective – UV water treatment systems are extremely cost-effective with little to no maintenance required and no man hours needed to handle chemicals. With long-lasting, high-performance UVC germicidal lamps, UV water disinfection is trouble-free, saving time and money.

Treating water with UV disinfection methods provides these benefits and many others. High-performance, quality UVC germicidal lamps are the key to realizing the maximum advantages offered by UV water disinfection.

Germicidal Lamps for UV Water Treatment Systems

The most common types of germicidal lamps used in UV water treatment systems are low-pressure mercury lamps and rare gas discharge UV lamps. UVC germicidal lamps are designed without the phosphor coating which is typical of most fluorescent lamps. This allows the right amount of UV radiation to flow through the body of the lamp for effective disinfection.

The body of germicidal lamps is filled with either a mix of gases such as Argon, Mercury, Neon, Zenon, Krypton or others or may be filled with pure Argon. The germicidal application will determine the right mix of gases for the most effective disinfection.

There are a few different styles of lamps that are effective for UV water disinfection such as:

• Low-Pressure Amalgam Germicidal Lamps

• Low-Pressure UVC Germicidal Lamps

• Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge Germicidal Lamps

• Quartz sleeves and electronic ballasts

UV radiation emitted at precisely 254 nm, the measurement which refers to the wavelength of light, is the most effective wavelength for germ-killing disinfection.  Ozone-emitting lamps operate at 185nm and are also very effective at eradicating harmful contaminants and odor. These UV lamps may be designed with Quartz, soft glass, or Quartz and Titanium.

LightSources Provides High-Performance UVC Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is a leading global supplier of high-performance UVC germicidal lamps used in water disinfection processes. LightSources in the United States and LightTech in Europe are recognized as an authority on UV technology and developing lamp and lighting solutions. We offer a wide selection of Low-Pressure UV lamps, Amalgam Lamps, Medium-pressure UV Lamps, Quartz sleeves, and electronic ballasts. Our skilled design and engineering team possesses in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and offers custom-designed lamps made to meet your specifications.

Our Amalgam lamps are developed with proprietary technology, providing up to three times the UVC output over comparable lamps of the same size. We will custom-design the right mix of gases to achieve the optimum output for your germicidal application.

Benefits of UV Air Purifier for HVAC Systems

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/benefits-of-uv-air-purifier-for-hvac-systems/

UV air purifier for HVAC systems provides many health benefits by keeping air clean, disinfected, and free from irritants, pollutants, and germs. UV air purification systems used in HVAC and AC units provide significant health benefits to people in many environments such as public buildings, hospitals, nursing homes and doctor facilities. UV air purifiers are becoming popular in residential homes as well as many people realize the benefits of cleansing the air we breathe and removing contaminants.

UV air purifiers are proven to effectively eliminate bacteria, viruses, germs, mildew, mold and even dust from the air. Breathing clean air free from these contaminants improves health and wellness in all people and is critical for people with compromised immune systems, asthma or respiratory illnesses. Eradicating these contaminants from the air provides a healthier environment and promotes continued health and wellness.

Effectiveness of UV Air Purifier for HVAC

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is emitted in various wavelengths measured in nanometers (nm). UV light emitted specifically at 254 nm is proven to be extremely effective at killing germs, viruses and all types of bacteria. This optimum output of germ killing UV wavelength does not emit ozone, which is produced when UV radiation is in the range of 185 nm. Ozone is a proven deodorizer, removing foul odors from the air. Consult with a UV HVAC professional regarding ozone generating lamps as they may cause corrosion to copper lines in some AC units.

Properly Install UV Air Purifier in HVAC Systems

Proper installation of UV lamps in air purifier HVAC systems is important for maximum effectiveness. UV air purifier systems should be mounted on the cold air side near the cooling coil or downstream. The output should be targeted toward the cooling coil and the draining pan for condensation underneath the coils to prevent the growth of algae or mold spores. Improper installation would not be effective in eliminating germs as bacteria and mold could develop and contaminate the blower which would contaminate the entire living space. Growth of algae or mold could also clog the coils of an AC unit and cause the motor to overwork and burn out quicker than if those contaminants were eliminated. Eliminating these germs and harmful contaminants through your HVAC unit provides clean and disinfected air for improved health and wellness as well as prolonging the life of your valuable HVAC and AC equipment.

Benefits of HVAC UV Air Purification Systems

HVAC UV air purification systems provide many benefits in commercial and residential settings. Business owners realize the benefits of providing clean and healthy air to employees which improves attendance and cuts down on workplace illnesses. Daycare centers and schools help to prevent the spread of airborne illnesses among students and hospitals provide a safer environment for sick patients. Clean and healthy air is vital to all people in all environments including commercial, industrial and residential settings.

UV air purifiers in industrial settings help manufacturers to maintain a healthy work environment while meeting air emission regulations. UV air purification is proven to remove toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air produced by industrial operations. UV air purification is becoming more popular in residential HVAC systems, providing cleaner air in homes which benefits all residents especially people that are sick or have a compromised immune system. UV air purification provides all of these benefits as well as prolonging the life of your equipment by eliminating mold, mildew and harmful contaminants.

LightSources Offers High-Quality UV Air Purification Lamps

The LightSources Group consists of LightSources in the United States and China, LightTech in Europe and valuable partner companies which allow us to provide high-quality UV lamps which outlast and outperform comparable products. Our vast global resources and state-of-the-art glass factory in Hungary promotes our continual research and development and allows us to deliver first to market, proprietary lamps and lighting solutions. Our skilled engineers possess in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and provide custom design, engineering and manufacturing of UVC germicidal solutions.

We offer high-quality UV lamps for use in air purification systems and HVAC units which are proven effective at eliminating harmful contaminants.  Our technical team will assist you in developing custom solutions and lamps to fit any footprint in existing or new HVAC air purifiers. Our UVC germicidal lamps for air disinfection include low pressure Amalgam lamps designed with proprietary technology for longer-lasting effectiveness proven to yield up to three times more output than comparable lamps of the same length. We offer medium pressure lamps, Quartz sleeves and electronic ballasts designed to your specifications.

UV Ballast Water Management System Advantages

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-ballast-water-management-system-advantages/

A UV ballast water management system is a means for controlling and managing the ballast water on ships to prevent the spread of harmful marine organisms. Ships use ballasts, which are large water tanks filled with sea water and located in strategic areas around the ship, for balance depending on the weight of their cargo.

Ships will pick up ballast water while removing cargo in one port to offset the weight loss while traveling through the ocean. The problem with this is that along with filling their ballasts with oceanic water, marine organisms, including harmful marine life and microorganisms, come with it.

Why a UV Ballast Water Management System is Important

These hitchhikers are known to wreak havoc on the ecosystem in which they are released. When ships reach another port and release their ballast water to add cargo, these foreign marine lives take hold and take over in an environment where they have no natural predators. Foreign invaders altering natural marine ecosystems through contaminated ballast water is recognized as one of the greatest threats to the sustainability of our planet’s oceans.

It is estimated that more than 79 million tons of ballast water is discharged at ports of call near the US coastline alone. Not only does harmful ballast water invade and pose a threat to coastal ecosystems, but also poses a real danger to humans as well. Contaminated ballast water spreads diseases which affect humans, causes insurmountable economic damage by destroying fishing industries entire towns depend upon and requires massive cleanup efforts.

Seawater in ballast tanks contains many harmful pathogens and microbes which pose a real safety risk to humans. Seawater taken in as ships ballast water has been proven to contain harmful diseases such a Cholera which is a quick spreading disease that can be fatal for nearly 50% of people it infects. Ballast water has been known to spread toxic algae, jellyfish which completely destroy fishing ports, mussels which attach to structures like dams, and harmful marine microorganisms including viruses and bacteria naked to the human eye.

Ballast Water Management Convention Requirements

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency within the United Nations which is tasked with the responsibility of establishing safety, security and preventing marine and atmospheric pollution by ships worldwide. The Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) is a landmark effort to halt the spread of invasive aquatic species.

The BWMC was first adopted by the IMO in 2004 as an international effort to control and manage ballast water and sediments from all ships. Since its adoption, the BWMC has had several technical guidelines and updates to support shipmasters, ship owners and port authorities.

The biggest news for the BWMC is the recent ratification of more than 65 states which represent more than 70% of the total world tonnage and requires all ships traveling through international waters to maintain a ballast water management system. These recent requirements were enforceable September 8, 2017, and are to be implemented over time for existing ships and immediately for all newly constructed vessels.

The BWMC obligates all parties to undertake comprehensive actions to reduce or eliminate the transfer of harmful aquatic pathogens and organisms through the control and management of ballast water and sediments. Port State control officers have the ability to inspect ships to verify an approved ballast water management plan, a valid certificate and to inspect the ballast water record book or sample the ship’s ballast water.

Ballast Water Management System Technologies

Ballast water treatment methods include mechanical filtration and UV ballast water management systems, often used together for highly effective control and elimination of harmful marine organisms. Ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamps are proven to instantly eradicate viruses, bacteria and microorganisms naked to the human eye. UV ballast water treatment technology offers many advantages to shipmasters and shipowners.

UV ballast water management systems are approved by the US Coast Guard and the IMO, and offer the following advantages:

• Simple operation with very low maintenance

• Economical, fast and efficient technology

• Eco-friendly, chemical free safe process

• No need to handle, store or transport dangerous chemicals

• No impact to the environment

UV ballast water treatment technology is safe and effective, requires a small footprint suitable for smaller vessels and is very low maintenance with long-lasting UV germicidal lamps.

LightSources Offers High Performance UV Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is a leading global authority on UVC germicidal lamp development and solutions for a wide range of applications. We have partnered with many of the largest providers of ballast water treatment systems in the world to provide high-quality UV germicidal lamps and components for newly constructed ships or alterations to existing ships.

Our Low Pressure (LP) Pellet Amalgam lamps are designed with proprietary LongLIfe™ technology providing an increased efficiency of 30 to 35% over other comparable lamps. Our Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) germicidal lamps provide an even smaller footprint with proven durability and effectiveness. UV radiation emitted at precisely 254 nm is proven to quickly destroy harmful germs, viruses and bacteria by instantly destroying the DNA of these cells, rendering them harmless and unable to replicate.

Hospital UV Disinfection: Highly Effective with Automatic Solutions

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/hospital-uv-disinfection-highly-effective-with-automatic-solutions/

Healthcare facilities face serious challenges with mitigating the spread of germs and are seeking enhanced methods of disinfection such as hospital UV disinfection systems. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) cause nearly 100,000 deaths in the U.S. annually with approximately 1 in 25 people contracting an infection from their hospital stay. HAIs cause unnecessary deaths and put patients and staff at an increased risk.

The hospital environment plays a critical role in the transmission of pathogens, as many harmful viruses and bacteria can remain on surfaces for weeks, months, and even years. Superbugs which are resistant to antibiotics such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) pose additional challenges to keeping patients and hospital staff safe from infection.

Challenges in Disinfecting Hospital Rooms and Surfaces

Many challenges exist in preventing the spread of infection in hospital rooms and surfaces. Disease outbreaks have been traced back to many sources such as thermometers, blood pressure cuffs, sinks, and counters in patient rooms, and computer keyboards. This puts hospital staff at risk of contracting and spreading dangerous pathogens.

Hospital staff are expected to thoroughly clean patient rooms and use disinfectants known to kill pathogens of a previously infected patient. Some chemical disinfectants may require a long exposure time to provide effective disinfection and may not even be applied to all infected surfaces. Cleaning materials themselves such as mops or cleaning cloths may also become a source of transmission, spreading harmful pathogens rather than eliminating them.

Due to these challenges facing the healthcare environment with ineffective chemical treatments and the resistance of certain pathogens, it is imperative to incorporate enhanced disinfection with hospital UV disinfection.

Enhanced Disinfection with Hospital UV Disinfection

UV disinfection in hospitals is becoming an extremely popular method of assuring protection against the spread of harmful diseases, with a high rate of efficacy. According to a study published by Cambridge University, UV disinfection systems reported >99.99% effectiveness in eliminating resistant pathogens such as:

• Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) which had a reported mortality rate of approximately 36%

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

• Mouse hepatitis virus, strain A59 (MHV-A59)

UV disinfection systems provide a high rate of efficacy, although they are most effective in hospitals when used in addition to standard cleaning of hard surfaces and should never be considered a substitute for good cleaning practices.

Automatic UV Disinfection Systems for Hospitals

UV disinfection in hospitals is gaining traction due to the high rate of effectiveness and also because of the ability to automate the disinfection process. Many types of hospital UV disinfection systems are available such as:

• Portable UVC robots and UVC light carts

• Stationary solutions such as UVC lamps in light fixtures, overhead doors, and doorways

• UVC lamps in HVAC systems disinfect the air

• UVC lamps in water systems for clean water supply

With a wide range of UVC disinfection systems available to incorporate into hospitals and healthcare facilities, automating an effective UV disinfection solution is much more attainable than in previous years. Integrating UV disinfection systems with building management systems allows for facility managers to activate UV light disinfection systems on demand or as an automatic cycle in various areas of the hospital.

Automated hospital UV disinfection systems provide an invaluable benefit to protect patients and staff as well as cost-effective operation with no required labor. Activating automated UV disinfection in operating rooms after surgeries and prior to new patient arrivals adds a protective layer to manual cleaning and can reach odd places that may get overlooked during manual cleaning processes.

A study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) in 2013, concluded that an automated hospital UVC system led to a significant decrease in the total number of colony-forming units (CFUs) of many types of organisms including Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE), C. difficile and Acinetobacter.

Hospitals can incorporate automated UV disinfection systems in operating rooms, patient rooms, labs, storage facilities and on equipment surfaces. UVC germicidal lamps offer an enhancement to traditional cleaning methods and are proven to be more effective than cleaning with chemicals alone.

LightSources Offers UVC Lamps for Any Hospital Disinfection System

For over 35 years, LightSources has been offering superior products and processes to OEMs as a world leader in the manufacturing of quartz germicidal lamps. Our partner company, LightTech in Hungary, allows us to provide prompt service of quality UV germicidal lamp solutions to our customers in Europe and Asia.

LightSources and LightTech design and produce UV germicidal lamps with peak UV output at 254nm for maximum effectiveness, 185nm ozone-producing lamps, and a wide selection of UVC lamp types for various applications:

• Amalgam Lamps

• Quartz Germicidal Lamps:

  • High output lamps

  • Standard output lamps

  • Germipak UV Cell lamps

  • U-lamps

  • Subminiature UVC lamps

  • R.P.T. UVC lamps

  • All-in-one submersible UVC lamps

• Soft Glass Germicidal Lamps:

  • Standard and HO lamps

  • Compact lamps

• Medium Pressure UV Lamps

  • Custom MP UV lamps

• High-Pressure UV Lamps

  • Custom HP UV lamps

• Quartz sleeves

• Shatter+ Protech technology

• Proprietary Bases and Sockets

Low-Pressure Amalgam UV Disinfection Lamps

LightSources provides the widest selection of high-quality pellet and spot amalgam technology in the lamp industry, with both standard and custom-engineered solutions available. Our amalgam lamps deliver the same high performance in either vertical or horizontal operations and yield up to three times the UVC output of other lamps comparable in length. Proprietary LongLife+ technology is applied to our amalgam line to reduce output depreciation, contributing to a long useful life of up to 16,000 hours with end-of-life output at 90% of initial UVC output. We offer a wide selection of spot and pellet amalgam lamps with custom sizes, shapes and UVC output available.

Quartz Germicidal Lamps

The type of fused quartz used in the lamp body determines UV wavelength emissions. Low ozone quartz delivers 90% emissions at 254nm, while very high ozone (VH) lamps clear fused quartz emit both 185nm and 254nm. Synthetic quartz is also available for an even higher ozone emission at 185nm. LightSources offers a wide selection of quartz lamps, standard output, high output, Germipak UV Cell germicidal lamps, and U-shaped quartz germicidal lamps.

Soft Glass Germicidal Lamps

Soft glass offers more variety with sizes and shapes than quartz glass with a wide range of operating currents. We engineer soft glass germicidal lamps with the highest in quality material and a wide range of sizes. Soft glass germicidal lamps are an economical option over quartz lamps, with custom shapes and sizes available.

UVC Robot: Autonomous Virus Killer on Wheels

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uvc-robot-autonomous-virus-killer-on-wheels/

Ultraviolet radiation in the UVC range is known for killing viruses, bacteria, and harmful pathogens in many applications. You can find UVC germicidal lamps in disinfection systems worldwide used to kill viruses and bacteria in water, in the air, and on surfaces. UVC disinfection lamps are mounted in various disinfection systems, like water treatment plants, air purification systems, and industrial machines.

With advances in technology and robotics, UVC germicidal solutions are available in many forms of automatic UVC robots. These UVC robots can roam indoors and outdoors, killing viruses and bacteria almost instantly. UVC germicidal lamps are proven to kill most infectious microorganisms in seconds and eliminate difficult-to-treat pathogens like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in minutes.

UVC Robots Beneficial in Many Environments

UVC robots are now popping up in many places such as hospitals, office buildings, shopping malls, libraries, and airports. Outdoor disinfection robots can be found on school campuses, industrial parks, and many other public gathering areas. These disinfection robots can be programmed to spray a disinfectant and also emit powerful UVC radiation at the precise wavelength of 254 nm, proven to have the most germicidal effectiveness.

The benefits of these autonomous robots are clear:

• No labor required – UV disinfection robots can disinfect a large area with no labor required. They can run for 24 hours continually and even head back to their charging station when needed.

• No infectious disease exposure to humans – while the robots are disinfecting an area, human employees such as nurses in hospitals are not exposed the superbugs that may be lingering in the room.

• Effective germ-killing ability – UVC robots are proven to eliminate most viruses and bacteria and even hard-to-treat pathogens which pose serious risks when exposed to humans.

• Safe when used without people in the room – UVC robots are set up to enter hospital rooms or other areas when vacant to avoid UV exposure to humans. They can be controlled remotely and programmed to shut down if movement is detected.

Proven Effectiveness of UVC Radiation in Hospital Rooms

According to a study in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, UVC devices effectively eliminated bacteria on contaminated surfaces both in the line of sight and also behind objects. UVC radiation was 99.9% effective in reducing the counts of vegetative bacteria on surfaces within 15 minutes and was also proven 99.8% effective in reducing superbugs and C. difficile spores within 50 minutes.

UVC robots and UV germicidal devices are only as powerful as the quality of UVC germicidal lamps installed on the systems. Using high-quality UV germicidal lamps is key to achieving maximum germicidal effectiveness.

LightSources Provides UV Lamps for UVC Robots

LightSources is a valued supplier to OEMs worldwide of high-tech, high-quality UV lamps including a wide selection of UVC germicidal lamps and components. Our UV disinfection lamps include many variations of the most effective types of germicidal lamps:

Low-Pressure Mercury Lamps – low-pressure mercury lamps support a wide range of germicidal applications with seven various types of lamps including:

• Standard quartz

• High output quartz

• Compact quartz

• GU lamps

• Standard softglass

• High-output softglass

• Compact softglass

Standard low-pressure mercury lamps provide the greatest efficiency, converting 40% of the lamp’s electrical power into UVC radiation at precisely 254 nm. High-output mercury lamps deliver twice the UVC output. Softglass lamps can operate on a lower current and provide high efficiency. Low-pressure mercury lamps also provide long-lasting effectiveness at up to 13,000 hours of operating life.

Low Pressure Amalgam Lamps – amalgam germicidal lamps can operate over a broader range of temperatures making them ideal in air or water applications that experience fluctuating temperatures between 4 – 40°C. Amalgam UV germicidal lamps by LightSources provide three times the UVC output over standard lamps of the same size. Our UV lighting engineers offer the ability to custom design amalgam lamps to meet your needs such as higher temperature requirements or compact space requirements. Our amalgam lamps provide value with reduced maintenance expenses and a long operating life up to 16,000 hours. We provide spot and pellet amalgam technology with proprietary technology that delivers higher efficiency even in power-dimming conditions.

Medium Pressure Ultraviolet Lamps (MPUV) – MPUV lamps are commonly used in curing inks and polymers although have been found to be very effective in many germicidal applications. MPUV lamps are found in water disinfection and air purification systems. LightSources offers a wide selection of MPUV lamps varying for 100 watts per inch (wpi) to 700 wpi designed with custom phosphor blends to achieve specific wavelengths to match your application needs. We engineer your germicidal lamps to meet specific OEM requirements.

Quartz Sleeves – Quartz sleeves protect lamps from breakage, leakage, air and water flow, and temperature fluctuations without affecting efficient operations. LightSources offers domed type and open-ended quartz sleeves engineered with only high-quality material.

Electronic Ballasts – Our electronic ballasts provide many advantages such as the ability to operate on multiple supply voltages with insensitivity to variations in line voltage. Our ballasts provide high power and high efficiency with a lightweight design.

UV Kitchen Exhaust: Self-Cleaning Technology

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-kitchen-exhaust-self-cleaning-technology/

UV light technology provides disinfection solutions to a variety of air, surface, and water treatment applications with high-intensity UV lamps proven to break down organic compounds. UVC germicidal lamps are used in a multitude of environments where eliminating harmful microorganisms is critical, such as hospitals, schools, and many public areas including restaurants. UV lamps help to eliminate germs in the air and on surfaces, providing proven restaurant disinfection solutions in dining areas as well as in the kitchen with food irradiation and UV kitchen exhaust systems.

UV lamps in kitchen exhaust systems provide many benefits by preventing bacteria and grease buildup in kitchen exhaust hoods. This self-cleaning technology provides a cleaner, healthier and safer commercial kitchen by eliminating odors and mitigating the risk of grease fires.

UV lamps with emissions in the UVC wavelength have long been used in HVAC systems to eliminate bacteria and mold growth in ductwork. This UVC technology provides the same benefits and also prevents grease buildup in Commercial Kitchen Ventilation (CKV) systems.

How UV Kitchen Exhaust Systems Work

Kitchen exhaust systems provide the primary function of extracting grease through mechanical filters and inertial means. Kitchen hood exhausts successfully remove grease particles. The smaller grease particulates and vapor that remain are then exposed to the UVC light to break down the molecules. This process effectively prevents grease buildup, thus reducing maintenance, cleaning and mitigating fire hazard.

Photolysis and Ozonolysis

UVC lamps in UV kitchen exhaust systems break down grease particles in commercial kitchen exhaust systems through two distinct processes: photolysis and ozonolysis. Photolysis is the chemical reaction that occurs when a chemical compound is broken down by photons. Photolysis breaks down the molecular bond and grease particles and ozonolysis oxidizes the grease molecules.

Installing UV Lamps in Kitchen Exhaust Systems

UVC germicidal lamps can be installed in the interior of the hood exhaust plenum, in stainless steel fixtures against the top or back of the ductwork. UV lamps should be installed in kitchen exhaust systems with a separation of at least 10 cm to provide ample spacing for effective photolysis to occur.

Breakdown of Grease Buildup

The UV radiation reacts with the air pulled through the kitchen hood exhaust during the photolysis process, also called photodissociation, where the photons break down the oxygen molecules into oxygen atoms. The oxygen atoms combine with any remaining oxygen molecules to form ozone molecules, which react with the organic compounds in the grease.

This chemical reaction called ozonolysis, alters the grease organic compounds in the exhaust air to form easier-to-clean byproducts, specifically carbon dioxide and water vapor. Ozonolysis is proven to significantly reduce the buildup of grease deposits in both the grease exhaust duct and the hood exhaust system.

Benefits of UV Lamps in Kitchen Hood Exhaust Systems

Reducing grease buildup reduces the maintenance and cleaning required in a kitchen hood exhaust and also decreases the likelihood of grease fires occurring in the kitchen exhaust system.  Ozone is known to eliminate foul odors in the air, thus ozonolysis helps to eliminate the odor that comes with built-up grease, which can occur quickly in busy commercial kitchens.

UV disinfection lamps in UV kitchen exhaust systems help restaurant owners to achieve many benefits including:

• Significantly reduce built-up grease in kitchen exhausts

• Eliminate foul orders from stale, built-up grease

• Mitigate the risk of fires in kitchen exhaust systems

• Save money on cleaning and maintenance expenses

• Supports sustainable heat recovery

While UVC technology is safe and chemical-free, direct exposure to skin and eyes should be avoided. Safety measures that turn off the UV lights when the kitchen exhaust is turned off protect kitchen personnel.

It is important to use reputable UVC germicidal lamps and hood exhaust systems to ensure the proper breakdown of molecules as well as ensure the safety of kitchen and restaurant workers. UVC systems should be installed in kitchen hood exhausts with several interlocks, ensuring that the UV lights will turn off when the exhaust system is off or when a filter is removed to protect against human exposure.

UVC Lamps for Restaurants and UV Kitchen Exhaust Systems

LightSources is recognized worldwide as a leading manufacturer of high-tech UVC germicidal lamps. We support OEMs of all sizes with a wide selection of UVC germicidal lamps in various shapes and sizes as well as with custom-engineered solutions to meet your specifications.

Our lighting engineers possess deep technical knowledge of UV radiation and continually develop first-to-market, proprietary technology through extensive research and development. We offer UV lamp prototype solutions and custom phosphor blends to produce the optimum wavelength for specific germicidal needs. Our UVC germicidal lamps can be found in a multitude of applications including UVC robots, hospital air and surface disinfection, restaurant and UV kitchen exhaust systems, and many other air, water or surface disinfection applications.

HVAC UV Light Benefits

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/hvac-uv-light-benefits/

Ultraviolet (UV) light has powerful germ-killing properties and provides advantages to a wide range of sterilization applications such as the many HVAC UV light benefits. UV light emitted in the UVC range is proven to kill many types of microorganisms including bacteria and viruses, even mold and mildew. Other types of UV lamps such as UV ozone lamps also eliminate foul odor by eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air that cause odor and illness.

Most Important HVAC UV Light Benefits

The two most important benefits of UV lights in HVAC systems are that they prevent mold and mildew from accumulating inside the equipment, which makes your HVAC system run more efficiently and reduces energy consumption. The other greatest benefit is improving indoor air quality (IAQ) by eliminating bacteria and viruses that circulate throughout a home or office.

UV lights in HVAC systems provide a healthier living environment and improve efficient HVAC operation as well as providing the following benefits:

• Kills germs, viruses, and bacteria.

• Eliminates mold, mildew, and other allergens.

• Removes volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

• Eliminates foul odors.

• Improves HVAC efficiency.

• Reduces HVAC maintenance.

• Lowers monthly expenses and energy consumption.

HVAC UV Light Benefits Equipment

UVC germicidal lamps harness the power of UV radiation to kill microorganisms and when installed in heating, venting. and cooling (HVAC) systems, UV lamps provide many benefits. UVC radiation kills bacteria and mold that can build up inside an HVAC’s coils, which keep equipment cleaner, running more efficiently and requiring less maintenance. The inside of an HVAC unit is dark and damp, and a prime location for the build-up of mold, fungi, and bacteria. UV lights help to eliminate contaminants inside the HVAC system and in air-ducts that could be prone to spreading disease.

When UV lights are professionally installed inside an HVAC system, they target the coils where contamination is likely and prevent the growth and build-up of pollutants such as mold, mildew, pollen, dust, smoke, and soot. UV lights prevent the build-up of these contaminants which can reduce the performance of your HVAC unit and provide cleaner air to circulate throughout your home or office.

HVAC UV Light Benefits Indoor Air Quality

HVAC UV lights also prevent the spread of mold spores, fungi, bacteria, and viruses throughout your living area which significantly improves indoor air quality. UV lights help to prevent sickness from spreading by removing airborne pathogens before they spread throughout your living area. Killing these contaminants that cause illness at the source reduces allergies and asthma symptoms in people with asthma and respiratory illnesses.

When HVAC UV lights kill VOCs, they do more than just eliminate odor. VOCs are also known to cause many health problems including throat, nose, and eye irritation as well as headaches and nausea. By eliminating VOCs from circulating throughout your indoor air, you are improving the air quality and health of everyone in the building.

UVC Germicidal Lamps for HVAC

LightSources is a leading global supplier of high-tech germicidal UVC lamps designed and engineered for optimum germ-killing power. We offer UVC germicidal lamps in various sizes, types, and styles to suit any sterilization need including UV air disinfection, water and surface sterilization. Our lighting engineers offer custom designed and prototype solutions to meet the demands of OEMs large and small.

UV Light in HVAC Effectiveness

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-light-in-hvac-effectiveness/

Direct exposure to UVC lights can be hazardous to skin and eyes, although with the right type of germicidal lamps and proper installation, there is proven evidence of high germicidal UV light in HVAC effectiveness.

How Do UV Lights in HVAC Systems Work?

UVC lights are designed to emit particular wavelengths in the range of 254 nanometer (nm), which is effective at penetrating the DNA of microorganisms. The UV radiation is absorbed by the cells’ DNA which renders them unable to produce the needed proteins to survive or replicate. UV light does not immediately kill the germs, although it shortens their life span, and nullifies their ability to replicate and cause harm.

UVC light can penetrate the cells of viruses, bacteria, mold spores, fungi, and various germs when they pass through a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system. Strategically installing germicidal UVC lamps in HVAC units helps to purify the air and sterilize HVAC equipment for longer, more efficient use. UV light in HVAC effectiveness is proven to improve indoor air quality for a healthier indoor environment.

UV Light in HVAC Effectiveness

There are several studies that evaluate UV light in HVAC effectiveness with promising results for UV light in HVAC systems in hospitals, offices, and schools. According to a study conducted by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, ASHRAE, and Penn State University, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) showed successful results for reducing the amount of fungi in air handling units and cited improvements in children with mold induced asthma when installed in schools.

UV light has been used in hospitals and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, for controlling the spread of tuberculosis in hospitals and healthcare facilities. UVC radiation is known to kill harmful microorganisms even antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” like MRSA, SARS and is even proven to be effective at killing the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the novel COVID-19.

How are UV Lights Installed in HVAC Systems?

Treating the volume of air in your home or office is immense, and only possible when installed properly in air handling units or HVAC systems since humans cannot be exposed to UVC light. Since the HVAC system draws air into the evaporator unit, forcing it out through air vents and registers throughout the home, UV light installed in the evaporator unit sterilizes the air as it circulates.

Only a professional HVAC technician should install UV lights in HVAC systems for germicidal effectiveness. The lights must be installed in the right area with the right angle of exposure to sterilize the air as it passes through. The HVAC technician will clean the air handler system thoroughly prior to installing UV lights and should inspect all ductwork for leaks. With the right installation by a certified technician, UV lights in HVAC effectiveness will be at maximum levels to prevent airborne infection.

High Performance Germicidal UV Lights for HVAC Effectiveness

LightSources is recognized worldwide as a leading manufacturer of high quality, high performance UV germicidal lights found in many applications. UVC lamps by LightSources provide germicidal solutions to water, surface and air sterilization systems with proven UVC effectiveness. We offer a wide selection of UVC lamps in various sizes, types, and styles as well as customized engineering solutions to meet customer specifications.

Our lighting specialists possess deep technical knowledge of UVC radiation and lamp design to deliver cutting edge germicidal solutions. We conduct ongoing research and development for continual improvement and offer proprietary technology that improves lamp life and performance. LightSources is an ISO9001:2015 registered supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions including proven UVC germicidal lamps for use in a variety of industries and applications.

UV Light for Medical Use

Ultraviolet (UV) light is used for many purposes that promote health and wellness as there are many applications that harness the benefits of UV light for medical use.

UV Lamps Provide Many Health Benefits

UV light is measured in wavelengths mainly in the spectrum of 100 nanometer (nm) to 380 nm and is divided into three regions: UVA (320 – 400 nm), UVB (280 – 320 nm), and UVC (100 – 280 nm). UVC is short wave UV radiation and is completely absorbed by the ozone layer when emitted by the sun. UVA and UVB are the rays that reach the earth and are associated with the common sunburn as well as providing benefits like vitamin D and many other phototherapy treatments.

Scientists and lamp engineers such as the knowledgeable engineers at LightSources design and engineer UVC germicidal lamps to emit 254 nm, the most effective wavelength to kill viruses and bacteria. 185 nm ozone lamps are also effective in many sterilization applications. UV lamps designed to emit UVA and UVB wavelengths provide benefits to the medical industry in phototherapy lamps, as these wavelength emissions are proven effective to treat a host of medical conditions.

UV lamps provide many benefits in two distinct areas:

UVC Germicidal Lamps – UV light provides many benefits to the healthcare industry and many other environments with UVC germicidal lamps that eliminate harmful viruses and bacteria in the air, in water and on surfaces.

UV Phototherapy Lamps – UV lamps are used for medical phototherapy purposes, which is also called light therapy, where UV lamps are specifically designed to treat certain medical conditions.

LightSources and LightTech are world leading manufacturers of innovative UV lamps used in germicidal and phototherapy applications, providing patented lamp products with first-to-market technology and solutions.

UV Light for Medical Use in Germicidal Applications

Germicidal UVC lamps provide health benefits to the medical industry and are used to provide effective sterilization to many environments. Germicidal lamps are used in medical facilities, doctor’s offices, and hospitals as well as many public places and commercial institutions to stop the spread of disease. UVC germicidal lamps sterilize that air when installed in HVAC systems or in upper room air irradiation units to prevent airborne illnesses. Germicidal lamps are also used to eliminate harmful microorganisms and water and on surfaces.

Hospitals sterilize surgical equipment as well as surfaces such as in operating rooms and patient rooms. UVC robots are utilized in many hospitals and public places to further eliminate harmful pathogens. UVC light used in addition to regular cleaning protocol is proven to significantly decrease virus and bacteria load and can even eliminate superbugs like antibiotic resistant bacteria. UV sterilization helps to promote health and wellness in many public places such as workplaces, schools, libraries, airports, bus stations, and residential homes.

UV light promotes health and wellness in many medical applications with effective sterilization on surfaces, in water and in air sterilization systems.

UV Light for Medical Use with Phototherapy Lamps

Medical phototherapy lamps are used under a doctor’s supervision with specially designed lamps administering UVA, UVB and narrowband UVB emissions. Phototherapy UV lamps treat a host of medical conditions such as variety of skin conditions, mood disorders and successfully treat neonatal jaundice. Some of the most common applications of UV light for medical use include effective treatment for many skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo.

UV Light for Acne Treatment – acne vulgaris affects more than 85% of adolescents and is the most common skin condition in the U.S. a combination of red light and blue light is proven to be effective in treating acne to prevent new outbreaks and alleviate symptoms of current outbreaks. Blue light emitted at 415 nm is effective at killing bacteria to prevent acne outbreaks and red light emissions between 600 to 700 nm stimulates cell regeneration, healing and soothes inflammation.

UV Light for Eczema – eczema is a common skin condition which affects more than 30 million Americans with various types and symptoms. Eczema patients may experience different symptoms which can include dry, rough, scaly, itchy and inflamed patches of skin. UVA, UVB and narrowband UVB phototherapy lamps have been proven effective to improve symptoms and prevent outbreaks of eczema.

UV Light for Psoriasis – psoriasis causes patients to experience patches of dry, scaly and itchy skin with outbreaks of raised, hardened lesions. Topical ointments can provide relief for mild symptoms although UV phototherapy lamps can be more effective to help patients with severe psoriasis symptoms.

UV Light for Vitiligo – vitiligo is a skin condition that is considered an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the pigment forming cells in the body, melanocytes, causing white patches to appear on the skin. A UVB phototherapy lamp for vitiligo used in combination with medication is effective to put pigment back into the white patches.

UV light provides these medical benefits to these skin conditions and also treats forms of mood conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.

UV Light for Depression – many people who live in the northern hemisphere experience seasonal depression during the winter months. Symptoms of SAD are like symptoms of nonseasonal forms of depression which can become severe and include social withdrawal, weight gain, fatigue, and a lack of interest in normal activities. Phototherapy lamps help to combat symptoms when the days get shorter with less natural sunlight and are considered the most effective form of treatment for SAD.

UV light for neonatal jaundice – this condition occurs in newborns and causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of eyes as toxins build in the body from underdeveloped liver function. Treatment with UV blue light prevents brain damage that can occur with elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood and breaks down bilirubin into substances that are safely excreted through waste. UV lights to treat jaundice are also called bili-lights for this reason.

LightSources Offers Quality UV Lamps for Medical Use

LightSources and LightTech design and engineer UV medical phototherapy lamps to treat all these conditions as well as UV germicidal lamps for medical use with effective sterilization and disinfection. Our vast resources including a state-of-the-art glass factory in Europe combined with the leading high-tech lamp designers and engineers provide the most effective and cost-efficient solution for nearly any application requiring UV light for medical use.

Killing Bacteria with UV Light

Killing bacteria with UV light is highly effective when using UVC germicidal lamps, designed to emit shortwave UVC radiation which is proven to kill many types of bacteria as well as viruses, mold, mildew, harmful pathogens and foul odors. UV light can be divided into UVA 320-400 nm, UVB 290-320 nm, and UVC 100-290 nm, based on the wavelength, measured in nanometers (nm). UVC light when emitted from the sun is shorter wave than UVA and UVB and is entirely absorbed by the ozone layer.

UVC light exposure would cause damage to human skin and eyes and caution must be taken when UVC germicidal lamps are in use, although many types of UV see sterilization systems are designed to kill bacteria without posing a risk to human health.

How Does UV Light Kill Bacteria?

UV light has been used to kill bacteria for more than a century as this article points out when Finsen experimented with UV light 130 years ago, and then in 1877 Downes and Blunt published an article called “The Influence of Light Upon the Development of Bacteria”. UVC light emits a high-frequency, shortwave electromagnetic radiation that effectively kills bacteria, viruses and many harmful microorganisms by altering the DNA which renders the cells unable to replicate. This inactivation of the microbes causes cell death, mutations, and failure to reproduce thus rendering cells harmless.

What Types of Germs and Bacteria Does UV Light Kill?

UVC radiation is highly effective at eliminating many types of bacteria including drug-resistant bacteria called superbugs, viruses including many types of flu strains, beta coronaviruses including MERS, SARS, and the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Some of the most stubborn bacteria that UVC light is proven to eliminate include:

• MRSA (Methicillin-Resistand Staphylococcus Aureus)
• Salmonella
• ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli)Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE)
• Clostridium difficile
• Multidrug-resistant pseudomonas
• Carbapenemase-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC)

UVC light effectively eliminates these types of bacteria and many others up to 99.99%, as reported in this study regarding the effectiveness of ultraviolet air and surface sterilization systems.

Killing Bacteria with UV Light: Effective in Many Environments

UVC germicidal lamps are used in a wide range of sterilization applications providing effective disinfection of water, surfaces, and air.

Water UV sterilization – germicidal lamps are used to kill harmful microorganisms and bacteria in water with UVC radiation in many environments including pools and spas, wastewater treatment, drinking water, aquaculture, ballast water treatment for ships and many other types of water sterilization needs. UV lamps are one of the most effective water sterilization methods and are proven to inactivate pathogens such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia, which chlorine is unable to treat.

Surface UV sterilization – UVC lamps are used to disinfect and sterilize surfaces in many industries and applications including hospitals, restaurants, schools, commercial and industrial properties and public places.

Hospitals – UVC lamps sterilize surgical equipment, operating rooms, patient rooms, patient beds, surfaces, restrooms, and many other surfaces. According to a study published by Duke University, UV light can help hospitals cut transmission of four major drug resistant superbugs. Hospital acquired infections are common when patients stay overnight in a room known to have had a positive culture of a drug-resistant infection from a previous patient.

Restaurants – UVC lamps sterilize tables people eat on, kitchen counter surfaces, kitchen exhaust fans, walk-in freezers to prevent mold, over delis and in refrigerators.

Food Irradiation – UV germicidal irradiation, UVGI, is highly effective at preserving food and killing foodborne illnesses including E. Coli and Salmonella.

Air – UV air purification efficiently disinfects and sterilizes air without the use of hazardous waste or byproducts. UV lamps are used in air purification systems such as upper room UVGI systems, in HVAC systems sterilizing furnaces and air conditioning units. UVC lamps for air purification eliminate airborne viruses as the air flows in front of the UVC radiation and they also prevent the buildup of mold and mildew inside air condenser units which commonly occurs in these dark, damp places. UV air purification provides cleaner and healthier air for everyone to breathe in any environment whether residential, commercial, or industrial. Eliminating airborne microorganisms and foul odors including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as sulfides, mercaptans and ammonia improves indoor air quality for all.

Killing bacterial with UV light in these applications and many others such as in commercial and industrial properties and public transportation systems is a good way to help improve public health and safety.

Advantages of Killing Bacteria with UV Light

There are many advantages of using germicidal lamps to kill bacteria with UV light. Some of the most recognizable benefits of UVC sterilization include:

• No need to purchase, store, or dispose of dangerous chemicals
• No harmful byproducts from added chemical use
• UV lamps are low maintenance
• UVC sterilization is simple and safe although should be installed by a professional
• Highly effective, immediate sterilization
• Affordable with low operating expenses
• Proven ability to kill bacteria, viruses, mold, mildew and fungi

High-Quality Germicidal UVC Lamps

LightSources offers high-quality germicidal UVC lamps which are long-lasting and economical to operate. We offer a wide variety of germicidal lamps in standard and high output, quartz germicidal lamps, quartz compact and GU lamps, standard and high-output softglass lamps, and softglass compact lamps.
Standard low pressure mercury lamps provide the highest efficiency with 40% of a lamps’ electrical power converted into UVC radiation at 254nm. For applications requiring the highest UVC output, high-output mercury lamps are the best choice as they provide approximately twice the UVC output. In both standard and high-output (HO) UVC lamps, liquid mercury droplets collect at the lamp’s “cold spot.” As it reaches peak temperature, it creates a mercury vapor that produces maximum UVC output.

By operating on a lower current (between 180 and 425mA), soft glass lamps are available in standard and high output selections and provide a germicidal efficiency of 30%. The lamps are ozone free and best used for simple disinfection applications that only require a wavelength of 254nm. Other highly efficient low pressure mercury lamps are amalgam lamps. These lamps use a mercury amalgam mix to control the mercury vapor pressure. Instead of a “cold spot,” the lamp’s “amalgam spot on pellet” is used to regulate mercury vapor pressure. Amalgam lamps yield up to three times the UVC output of a standard low pressure mercury lamp of the same length. Your application will determine the type of UVC lamps that will work best for your needs.

Surface UV sterilization – UVC lamps are used to disinfect and sterilize surfaces in many industries and applications including hospitals, restaurants, schools, commercial and industrial properties and public places.

Hospitals – UVC lamps sterilize surgical equipment, operating rooms, patient rooms, patient beds, surfaces, restrooms, and many other surfaces. According to a study published by Duke University, UV light can help hospitals cut transmission of four major drug resistant superbugs. Hospital acquired infections are common when patients stay overnight in a room known to have had a positive culture of a drug-resistant infection from a previous patient.

Restaurants – UVC lamps sterilize tables people eat on, kitchen counter surfaces, kitchen exhaust fans, walk-in freezers to prevent mold, over delis and in refrigerators.

Food Irradiation – UV germicidal irradiation, UVGI, is highly effective at preserving food and killing foodborne illnesses including E. Coli and Salmonella.

Air – UV air purification efficiently disinfects and sterilizes air without the use of hazardous waste or byproducts. UV lamps are used in air purification systems such as upper room UVGI systems, in HVAC systems sterilizing furnaces and air conditioning units. UVC lamps for air purification eliminate airborne viruses as the air flows in front of the UVC radiation and they also prevent the buildup of mold and mildew inside air condenser units which commonly occurs in these dark, damp places. UV air purification provides cleaner and healthier air for everyone to breathe in any environment whether residential, commercial, or industrial. Eliminating airborne microorganisms and foul odors including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as sulfides, mercaptans and ammonia improves indoor air quality for all.

Killing bacterial with UV light in these applications and many others such as in commercial and industrial properties and public transportation systems is a good way to help improve public health and safety.

Advantages of Killing Bacteria with UV Light

There are many advantages of using germicidal lamps to kill bacteria with UV light. Some of the most recognizable benefits of UVC sterilization include:

• No need to purchase, store, or dispose of dangerous chemicals
• No harmful byproducts from added chemical use
• UV lamps are low maintenance
• UVC sterilization is simple and safe although should be installed by a professional
• Highly effective, immediate sterilization
• Affordable with low operating expenses
• Proven ability to kill bacteria, viruses, mold, mildew and fungi

High-Quality Germicidal UVC Lamps

LightSources offers high-quality germicidal UVC lamps which are long-lasting and economical to operate. We offer a wide variety of germicidal lamps in standard and high output, quartz germicidal lamps, quartz compact and GU lamps, standard and high-output softglass lamps, and softglass compact lamps.
Standard low pressure mercury lamps provide the highest efficiency with 40% of a lamps’ electrical power converted into UVC radiation at 254nm. For applications requiring the highest UVC output, high-output mercury lamps are the best choice as they provide approximately twice the UVC output. In both standard and high-output (HO) UVC lamps, liquid mercury droplets collect at the lamp’s “cold spot.” As it reaches peak temperature, it creates a mercury vapor that produces maximum UVC output.

By operating on a lower current (between 180 and 425mA), soft glass lamps are available in standard and high output selections and provide a germicidal efficiency of 30%. The lamps are ozone free and best used for simple disinfection applications that only require a wavelength of 254nm. Other highly efficient low pressure mercury lamps are amalgam lamps. These lamps use a mercury amalgam mix to control the mercury vapor pressure.

Instead of a “cold spot,” the lamp’s “amalgam spot on pellet” is used to regulate mercury vapor pressure. Amalgam lamps yield up to three times the UVC output of a standard low pressure mercury lamp of the same length. Your application will determine the type of UVC lamps that will work best for your needs.

UV TOC Reduction in Water with Quality Lamps

UV TOC reduction effectively removes Total Organic Carbon, TOC, from water which is critical in many applications and processes.

What Is Total Organic Carbon, TOC?

TOC refers to the total amount of organic carbon compounds found in water and is an important measurement to understand whether water used in certain processes is of a pure enough quality. All untreated water will contain some carbon compounds which can be introduced from various sources.

TOCs may include synthetic, man-made compounds, and altered or natural products from living systems. The presence of bacteria and other TOC’s and water may suggest a failure in filtration, components, systems, or storage. If TOC’s are left unfiltered these compounds may cause significant damage to expensive equipment, or unwanted contamination in applications such as semiconductor chip fabrication or pharmaceutical compound production. This kind of contamination can impact not only product quality but also process profitability.

Practicing TOC reduction methods is critical to protect many industries, the environment, and consumers.  UVC germicidal lamps play an important role in providing this protection.

When Should TOC’s Be a Concern?

High-purity water is a key component in many processes. Bacteria or other organic compounds can negatively impact product quality, process profitability and process yield. TOC destruction equipment is commonly seen in the following applications:

·        Food and beverage industry

·        Pharmaceutical industry

·        Microelectronics and semiconductor production

·        Wastewater and stormwater treatment

How UV TOC Reduction Works

Ultraviolet, UV, light has been used for over 100 years to remove harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses from water, air, and surfaces. UV light is an effective method of TOC reduction by utilizing UV light to destroy and/or remove organic compounds through different types of reactions. TOC’s can be reduced/eliminated with UV lamps through one of two following methods.

One TOC reduction method involves the creation of ozone via 185nm photons. These photons produced ozone which in turn oxidizes organic compounds found in water. Ozone lamps can also lead the the formation of hydroxyl radicals (-OH) , which are also very powerful oxidation agents.This can lead to further beneficial degradation of organics found in a given water source. This oxidation process is the primary UV chemical reaction occurring from high-energy 185 nm UV lamps.

Another method of UV TOC reduction occurs directly via photo-dissociation (photolysis) of organic molecules. In this TOC reduction method, high energy photons (185nm and 254nm) physically decompose organic matter found in a given water source.

Benefits of UV TOC Reduction

There are many benefits of using UV lamps for TOC reduction in addition to providing a reliable and effective method of purifying water. UV germicidal lamp water disinfection systems provide a wide range of benefits which include a high-level of microbial reduction and disinfection with 254 nm and 185nm emissions.

Some of the most important benefits of UV TOC reduction includes:

·        Germicidal effectiveness

·        Low operational expenses

·        Low maintenance costs

·        No harmful byproducts as with chemical use

·        Can operate indoor, outdoor, and water in the air

UV germicidal lamps by LightSources provide these benefits and many others such as custom design solutions available to meet your specific application requirements as well as proprietary technology.

Quality UV Germicidal Lamps for TOC Reduction

LightSources, LightTech, and the entire LightSources group consists of the leading high-tech UV lamp engineers in the industry offering customized prototype development, custom phosphor blends, and custom lamp components. Our compact UV lamps are available with a two tube linear design which delivers uniform lamp output. Compact, 254nm lamps are available in soft glass and both 185nm and 254nm lamps are available in quartz glass.

Compact UV lamps may include LightSources patented pellet amalgam technology which allows for lamps to produce a higher UV intensity which increases UV efficiency, reducing lamp power for cost savings.  Medium pressure, MPUVC Lamps, provide disinfection solutions for air, surfaces, and water including TOC reduction.