How to Handle MPUV Lamps for Proper Use

Medium pressure ultraviolet (MPUV) lamps are used in many applications worldwide such as UV curing processes and germicidal functions. LightSources and our European partner LightTech strive to deliver the best UV lamps available with proprietary technology developed through extensive research and development.  We are committed to providing the highest quality of lamps available which provide maximum effectiveness and energy efficiency.

Expensive Educational Materials for MPUV Lamps

We take our commitment a step further in offering extensive educational materials regarding the proper use and function of all UV and fluorescent lamps.  LightSources provides exceptional customer service including a wealth of information available in the form of printable downloads, lamp design drawings, FAQs and tips for the proper use and handling of all lamps. 

Proper Handling of MPUV Lamps

MPUV lamps in particular must be handled with care and anyone working with MPUV lamps should be well educated on the proper safety procedures.  It is important to wear a clean wrapper or cotton gloves, to handle lamps only when they are cold and to avoid touching the lamp with bare hands.  In the event a lamp is accidentally touched you should clean the exterior of the lamp with oil free alcohol to remove all skin oils.

You can extend the life of MPUV lamps by avoiding excessive lamp starts, particularly cold starts, and starting the lamps in the high power setting. Keeping your lamps and all ancillary lighting equipment clean with proper ventilation is important to maximize performance and longevity. Make sure that all of your lamp connections are secure, clean and routinely replace reflectors and any required components.

Safety is the number one concern when handling MPUV lamps and all operators should be aware that UV rays emitted from Mercury lamps may be harmful to human tissue. Avoid looking directly at UV lamps while operational and remember that reflected UV light could be harmful as well as direct light exposure. Use ozone producing lamps only in well ventilated areas and be sure to review our educational materials available on the handling and proper use of all UV lamps.

LightSources is committed to providing high-quality fluorescent and UV lamps which outlast and outperform comparable products. We believe in providing the right educational materials to maximize your understanding of UV radiation and safe handling of UV lamps. Contact us for all of your lamp requirements and with any questions regarding the proper handling, use and function of UV lamps.

Learn More about UV and Fluorescent Lamp Technology

The LightSources Group consists of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty fluorescent and ultraviolet (UV) lamps, providing lighting solutions to a multitude of applications. LightSources in the United States and China combined with LightTech in Europe, which is home to a modern, state-of-the-art glass factory, as well as several partner companies provide first to market, patented lamp solutions which outperform comparable lamps. Our partner companies include Voltarc, LCD Lighting and Cerlux which mirror our commitment to quality, education and customer service.

Voltarc leads the industry in architectural and signage lighting solutions, LCDL offers specialty fluorescent lamps for many applications including avionic display and backlighting found in aircraft and military defense including the NASA space shuttle while Cerlux offers custom ceramic lamp components and sockets. Together, we offer lamps and lighting solutions for any application and a wealth of knowledge that we share in our educational resources available online.

Educational Resources for All Lighting Technology Applications

Our educational resources section includes FAQs and downloads in an easy to understand glossary of terms for all types of lamps including:

• UVC Germicidal lamps
• Specialty UVC lamps
• Tanning lamps
• Sign lamps
• UV Curing lamps

We offer detailed information available for download such as material safety data sheets, how to handle various lamps and broken lamps, education on UVC technology, lamp drawings and custom designed request forms. Additional resources  include Accredited Lab information on testing and regulations related to tanning lamps, as well as troubleshooting tips and a Resources and Partner section.

The LightSources Group is committed to delivering the most effective and efficient lamps available as well as providing the most knowledgeable customer service for all lamp industry applications. We partner with OEMs large and small to help you understand industry-specific organizations, regulations and how to achieve maximum performance with cost effective, customized lighting solutions.

LightSources, LightTech and our affiliated partner companies represent the leading high-tech lamp designers and manufacturers available in the industry today. We offer the widest selection of lamps and lighting products found worldwide as well as an in-depth understanding of lighting technology to deliver the finest customer service. Contact us for all your lamp and lighting solutions and with any questions on lighting technology.

UV Sterilization Lamps Help Many Industries

Ultraviolet (UV) sterilization lamps have long been used in many germicidal applications and are becoming more and more popular in many commercial and residential uses as well. UVC germicidal lamps are specially designed to emit a powerful wavelength typically at 254 nm, which is proven to instantly eradicate harmful bacteria and viruses. Some UV lamps utilize ozone which develops at 185 nm and is a proven natural deodorizer and sterilizer.

UVC germicidal lamps are used in many surface sterilization applications such as:

• Grocery stores
• Dinner buffets
• Restaurants in kitchens
• Food and beverage industry
• Medical devices
• Pharmaceuticals

UV lamps kill harmful pathogens, mold, mildew and viruses, providing safety to workers and consumers in these industries and many others.

UV lamps are also used in water sterilization applications such as:

• Pool and spa
• Fish hatcheries
• Water reclamation
• Water treatment systems for cities and municipalities
• Ballast water treatment systems
• Water life and sciences

UVC germicidal lamps eliminate harmful marine organisms, bacteria, viruses and toxins in water and kill some harmful bacteria that chlorine can’t.

UV lamps are very effective at sterilizing and purifying the air in UV air purification systems which are utilized in many environments such as:

• Schools
• Nursing homes
• Hospitals
• Hotels
• Industrial manufacturing
• Public buildings
• Commercial property
• Residential homes

UVC germicidal lamps provide clean and sterile air to promote health and wellness among all residents, visitors and employees in these environments and many others.  UV purification systems are utilized in HVAC equipment for highly effective sterilization of the air with very little maintenance required. Specially designed UV air purification lamps eliminates bacteria, viruses, dust, mold and mildew and even foul odors from the air.

LightSources offers UVC germicidal lamps proven in these surface, with water and air purification systems with long-lasting effectiveness. We offer a wide selection of low pressure, medium pressure, medium and high output and patented Amalgam lamp technology to meet specific germicidal requirements.  We offer custom designed UV lamps, manufactured with high-quality components and custom designed phosphor blends.

The LightSources Group is committed to providing first to market, highly effective and energy efficient UV lamps and lighting solutions. We offer patented products developed with proprietary technology from skilled engineers with in-depth UV radiation knowledge and experience. Contact us to learn how to improve your UVC germicidal application with long-lasting, energy efficient UV lamp solutions.

Is Your Ballast Water Treatment System Compliant?

Since the most recent ratification of the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC), all ships traveling in international waters must maintain their ballast water and sediments to certain standards. A method of controlling and eliminating the transfer of harmful marine organisms and pathogens is required with a ballast water treatment system. The ballast water treatment technologies must meet US Coast Guard standards and is enforceable by the Marine Environmental Protection Committee (MEPC) a division of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The most recent ratification of a majority of states makes the BWMC enforceable globally with compliant ballast water management systems required on all newly constructed vessels with an implementation scale applying to existing ships. Port State authorities have the right to inspect all vessels for verification of a valid certificate, a ballast water record book and verification of an approved ballast water treatment plan. Port State control officers also have the right to sample a ship’s ballast water to verify an acceptable level of sediments and organisms.

Ballast Water Treatment Technologies

There are a few different methods used to treat ballast water such as chemical use involving chlorination, physical methods such as filtration and ultraviolet (UV) radiation technology.  Chemical use requires the purchase and storing of a large amount of chemicals as well as maintaining the system for effectiveness. Chemicals may cause additional problems with polluting the water and may require additional sanitation steps.

Filtration may catch some harmful organisms such as jellyfish or mussels which can wreak havoc when invading foreign ports although will not catch all toxins, bacteria and viruses. UV technology involves the use of specially designed UVC germicidal lamps which emit precisely the right amount of UV radiation at the proper wavelength.  UV lamps instantly eradicate harmful bacteria and viruses at 254 nm by penetrating the DNA of harmful microorganisms and rendering them unable to replicate.

UV lamps are proven effective in many water treatment systems as well as commercial and industrial air purification applications.  UV ballast water treatment systems are compliant with all regulations, are cost effective and easy to maintain. Be sure to work with an experienced UV lamp supplier for effective sterilization with maximum energy efficiency.

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps

The LightSources Group is a leading global supplier and recognized authority on UV lamps and lighting solutions. We offer a wide selection of UV lamps designed for a multitude of applications, including UVC germicidal lamps proven in water and air sterilization applications. We deliver first to market, patented products designed from skilled engineers with an in-depth understanding of UV radiation.

LightSources offers the widest selection of UV lamps and UVC germicidal solutions with custom-designed options available. We partner with OEMs large and small including developers of ballast water treatment systems, to deliver high-performance, long-lasting UV lamp solutions. Contact us to learn more about maintaining a compliant ballast water treatment system with UV lamp technology.

Phototherapy Lamps Deliver Proven Healing Benefits

Phototherapy, also called light therapy, is using specialty UV lamps to treat various health conditions. Phototherapy is proven to be a very effective treatment of several medical ailments such as various skin conditions, mood disorders and even diabetes.  Skin conditions which benefit from phototherapy lamps included acne, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and jaundice.

Light Therapy Lamps Help Skin Disorders

Phototherapy lamps are endorsed by the National Psoriasis Foundation when use under the care of a physician. UV light emissions in the UVB range deliver effective psoriasis treatment by reducing inflammation and slowing down the production of new skin cells which promotes healing.  UV lamps kill bacteria and reduce itchy and inflamed skin for patients suffering with acne and eczema.

Phototherapy Lamps Effectively Treat Jaundice

Jaundice occurs when the liver cannot effectively break down toxins in the body and is most common in newborn babies. Phototherapy lamps for jaundice are sometimes referred to as bili lights as they help the liver to break down bilirubin which nurtures the liver into a functioning state. 

Light Therapy Improves Diabetes

Light therapy helps people suffering with diabetes by promoting healing of wounds and killing bacteria to fight infection. UV light is also proven to treat diabetic retinopathy which is a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness.  Patients that have had diabetes for over 20 years are more susceptible to diabetic retinopathy which damages the retina in 80% of these long-term patients. If treated early, light therapy can lessen the progression of diabetic retinopathy in 90% of all cases.

Phototherapy Improves Mood Disorders

Phototherapy is proven to improve mood disorders and depression such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).  SAD affects many people in the northern hemisphere when daylight hours are reduced during the winter months. Light therapy is proven to help treat this condition with patients feeling better typically within one week of consistent treatment.

LightSources Offers Phototherapy Lamp Solutions

LightSources offers skilled engineers with in-depth knowledge of UV lamps and UVC germicidal solutions. We design, engineer and manufacture UV lamps used in phototherapy applications as well as germicidal solutions such as UV air purification and water sterilization. We understand how to harness the power of UV radiation with specialty phosphor blends and lamp components designed to emit precisely the right wavelength for any UV application.

The LightSources Group is a leading global supplier of high-tech fluorescent and UV lamps found in a multitude of applications worldwide. We offer the widest selection of standard lamps as well as custom designed solutions to meet your specific requirements. Contact us to speak with an engineer about our proven UV phototherapy lamp solutions.

Unique Lamp Bases Custom Designed for You

Custom designed lamp bases which match your company colors, logos or unique specifications can increase your product and brand awareness. OEMs worldwide performing industrial lamp applications such as UV germicidal processes, UV curing, UV air purification, water sterilization, tanning salons and more stand out from the crowd with custom lamp bases and matching lamp components. Set yourself apart from the competition with unique UV lamp bases and components coupled with long-lasting, high performance UV lamps.

Cerlux Offers Innovative Energy Efficient Solutions

Cerlux is a valued partner of the LightSources Group, offering high quality, customizable UV lamp solutions which meet your unique specifications. Cerlux offers a wide array of colors to choose from for your lamp bases including the option to match existing colors and logos.  Cerlux offers vast experience and in-depth expertise in specialty ceramic processes such as working with firing temperatures in excess of 1000°C. 

Cerlux follows the same strict quality policy as the LightSources Group for product and process quality control to deliver lamps solutions which outperform comparable products.   Environmentally friendly practices include green operations such as heating buildings and water with heat from the kiln. This is just one way that Cerlux shows a commitment to energy efficiency with innovative solutions. 

Cerlux Manufacturers Custom Lamp Bases and Components

Cerlux manufacturers electric insulators, washers, resistant grinding cylinders, tips and many additional products with a unique stamping process.  Cerlux is an industry leading manufacturer of lamp sockets and fittings using either a manual hand press or a fully automated process. A sophisticated glazing process provides lamp components in the color of your choice while offering superb protection.  

The LightSources Group is pleased to offer the valuable services and extensive product line of these high quality lamp fittings and components. We offer assistance and custom designed lighting solutions including miniature lamps, specialty fluorescent lamps, UVC germicidal lamps and lamps for virtually any lighting application.

The LightSources Group and our valued affiliated partners represent the leading high-tech lamp designers and engineers available in the industry today. We offer longer-lasting, energy efficient lamp solutions. Contact us to learn more about our proven lamp and lighting products including custom design lamp fittings and components.