Do UVC Lamps Really Work to Kill Bacteria?

UVC lamps are proven to be highly effective at killing bacteria and harmful contaminants in many water, surface and air sterilization systems. Ultraviolet (UV) light is in the electromagnetic spectrum which is invisible to the human eye. UV light is divided into UVA, UVB and UVC wavelengths, measured in nanometers (nm).  UVC radiation emitted at the wavelength of 254 nm is proven to instantly eradicate viruses, bacteria, fungi, mold spores, mildew and harmful microorganisms naked to the human eye.

UVC radiation penetrates the DNA of these living cells and renders them unable to replicate which instantly makes them harmless.  UVC lamps which are specially designed to emit UV radiation precisely at 254 nm effectively eliminate these harmful threats in water, air and on surfaces instantly upon exposure.  UVC ozone lamps emit wavelengths at 185 nm to produce ozone which is a proven oxidizer, sanitizer and deodorizer to eliminate foul odors from the air.

How Do UVC Lamps Work?

UVC germicidal lamps are commonly low-pressure Mercury lamps designed to emit the optimum UV radiation and wavelength for the germicidal application. The low-pressure lamps produce a Mercury arc and are engineered to radiate exactly 254 nm of UVC radiation.  UVC germicidal lamps contain a blend of Argon and Neon gases designed for the application.
UVC lamps operate with a discharge device comparable to fluorescent lamps, with the lamp body commonly constructed of:

• VH Glass – pure fused quartz that transmits both 185nm and 254nm
• L Glass – this is soft glass and designed to emit wavelengths at 254nm
• L Glass – quartz and Titanium which blocks out 185nm

UVC germicidal lamps are designed without the phosphor coating on the inside of the glass lamp to allow for the maximum amount of UV radiation to pass through the lamp. UVC lamps are designed with lamp ballasts which determine the amount of voltage required based on the rare gases used the lamp ballasts are a critical component of UVC lamp construction which deliver the optimum voltage.

The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide for delivering high-tech lamp solutions with cutting-edge, UV technology. We are committed to delivering high quality, high performance, long-lasting and cost-efficient OEM oriented solutions. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of lamp products and with any questions on UVC germicidal lamps.