How Effective is UV Light to Kill Germs?

The effectiveness of UV light to kill germs is proven in many germicidal applications such as air purification systems and water disinfection applications. UV light also kills germs on surfaces and is used in many applications such as food buffets and grocery stores. UV germicidal lamps harness the power of UV radiation, which destroys bacteria, viruses, and many germs naked to the human eye, instantly upon contact.

Ultraviolet radiation is emitted in wavelengths and measured with nanometers (nm), with UV light broken down into 3 basic categories, UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation. UVA light is measured between 315 nm and 400 nm, UVB light is found in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm, while UVC radiation is between 200 nm to 280 nm with these powerful shorter wavelengths proven to have an extremely effective germicidal function specifically at 254 nm.

Use UV Light to Kill Germs at 254 nm

UVC radiation is emitted in the range of 254 nm is proven to eliminate viruses, bacteria, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful microorganisms. UVC radiation at 254 nm instantly penetrates the cells of these living organisms and alters the DNA to render it unable to replicate which leaves them completely harmless. Short-wave UVC radiation does not reach the surface of the Earth as it is filtered out by the Earth’s atmosphere. This wavelength of UV light to kill germs is extremely effective and is harmless to people.

Use UV Light to Kill Airborne Germs with Ozone at 185 nm

UVC radiation emitted at the short wave of 185 nm is useful in ozone-producing germicidal lamps to eliminate odors from the air. Ozone-generating germicidal lamps are used in air purification systems worldwide to keep air smelling crisp and clean and free from foul and stale odors. Airpurification systems with ozone lamps eliminate VOCs such as ammonia, mercaptans, and sulfides. Ozone-generating lamps decompress oxygen, O² to produce ozone, O³ which is a proven oxidizer.

Using UV Light to Kill Germs Provides Many Benefits

Using UV light to kill germs provides many benefits over other methods of disinfection. Many environmental regulations and codes exist to control the use of chemical disinfection and byproducts. UVC germicidal lamps are completely free from any harmful byproducts, meeting strict regulations and environmental codes.

Companies utilize UVair purification systems to provide a safe work environment and control potentially dangerous emissions to meet environment code compliance. UV germicidal lamps are used in water disinfection systems such as municipalities’ water treatment systems, fish aquariums, hatcheries, ballast water treatment systems, and many other water cleansing applications. UV light even kills some bacteria and viruses that chlorine does not, such as cryptosporidium and giardia.

UV light disinfection provides effective germ-killing properties, code compliance with strict environmental regulations, and is completely safe with no harmful byproducts. High-performance, high-quality germicidal lamps also provide long-lasting performance which requires little to no maintenance. With UV light germ-killing systems there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of chemicals, providing maintenance-free disinfection systems which provide cost savings.

To summarize, UV disinfection provides the following benefits over other methods:

• Meets code compliance and environmental regulations
• Is completely safe with no harmful byproducts
• No need to maintain chemicals
• Long-lasting lamps require little to no maintenance
• Provides instant, effective disinfection
• Provides cost savings with long-lasting quality UVC germicidal lamps

With all of these benefits, it is easy to see why UV light is the preferred germ-killing disinfection process for many applications. Working with a reputable UVC germicidal lamp provider will deliver the best results with the right lamp for your process.

LightSources Offers High-Performance UVC Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is recognized as a leading global supplier of ultraviolet and fluorescent lamp solutions including custom-designed prototype products. The LightSources Group provides UVCgermicidal lamps used in air purification and water disinfection systems worldwide. We deliver first-to-market, patented products developed with proprietary technology as part of our commitment to delivering high-performance long-lasting, and energy-efficient solutions.

We offer a wide selection of UVC germicidal lamps such as our low-pressure Amalgam lamps developed with proprietary technology designed to withstand high current operation. Our low-pressure Mercury UVC lamps are available in quartz or soft glass and ozone-generating designs. Our high-output UVC lamps are designed to operate on higher currents with heavier filaments for more control and maximum UVC output.

 

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. UVlight 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 UVCgermicidal 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 UVCgermicidal 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

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.

UVair 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 airpurifier 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 cleanand 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 UVair 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 UVCgermicidal 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.

 

Learn How UV Light for Eczema Gives Patients Relief

Eczema is an irritating skin condition that causes painful, itchy patches of dry skin in varying degrees of severity and UV light for eczema is proven to provide relief. Eczema can cause emotional stress to those suffering from this skin condition who only want relief. There are different types of eczema, which include:

• contact dermatitis
• atopic dermatitis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• nummular eczema
• stasis dermatitis
• dyshidrotic eczema

Symptoms can be different among people suffering from eczema, although most people experience the most common symptoms reported as extreme itching, inflamed red skin, rough scaly patches of skin, dry, sensitive skin, and areas of swelling. Itchiness is associated with all types of eczema and can make symptoms worse if people scratch too much. Eczema may develop in babies and children who may outgrow the condition, or eczema may develop in adulthood.

Eczema currently has no known cure, although there are effective treatments in the form of topical ointments, creams, and ultraviolet (UV) light therapy.

How UV Light for Eczema Works

Topical treatments may work for some people, although UV light for eczema has been proven to give relief to many patients. UV light therapy, also called phototherapy, should be in a controlled setting under a physician’s care with the proper type of UV lamp. The right type of lamp must be used with the proper wavelength administered as exposure to the wrong type of UV radiation could worsen symptoms.

Some people notice an improvement in their symptoms during the sunny, summer months, these patients are more likely to see improvement with UV light therapy. People living in the northern hemisphere may notice that a UV lamp improves their symptoms during the winter months when sunlight is scarce. Consistency is key with UV light for eczema treatment as improvement usually takes one to two months of regular exposure.

Light is divided into colors and measured in wavelengths, with the unit of measure in nanometers (nm). Ultraviolet light is in the electromagnetic spectrum of radiated energy which is invisible to the human eye. Ultraviolet light is divided into three areas: UVA, UVB, and UVCradiation. UVA and UVB radiation are often prescribed to treat eczema.

UVA light is in the wavelength between 315 to 400 nm, UVB radiation is between 280 and 315 nm with narrow-band UVB light measuring 310 nm. UVB radiation is the most common type of light therapy for eczema and emits wavelengths that are similar to the sun’s rays and are proven to give relief to many patients. Some patients prescribed UVA treatments are also prescribed a medication called psoralen which makes their skin more receptive to the UVA treatments.

All types of UV light for eczema treatments are proven to help patients by suppressing the overactive immune system which reduces inflammation, itching, and pain. UV phototherapy can improve vitamin D production and increase the skin’s own bacteria-fighting systems. Phototherapy is proven to help about 70% of those suffering from this irritating skin condition to find relief from symptoms, or at least calm them down and in some cases put them in a state of remittance.

LightSources Offers Proven UV Lamps for Eczema Treatment

LightSources and European partner, LightTech, offer UV lamps proven highly effective in many phototherapy applications. The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide for designing, engineering, and manufacturing high-tech, cutting-edge UVlamp technology. Our engineers possess in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and lamp technology, offering UV lamps that outperform and outlast comparable lamps with long-lasting effectiveness.

Our UV phototherapy lamps are used worldwide to treat a host of medical conditions. Phototherapy lamps are proven effective in treating many skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, and mood disorders such as depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression caused by a lack of sunlight. The LightSources Group manufactures UV phototherapy lamps with full OEM support for all of these conditions.

LightSources is the leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps used in all disinfection applications such as in air purification systems and water disinfection processes. UVC radiation is proven to instantly eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses within seconds of exposure and is completely safe for humans. LightSources offers the widest selection of UVCgermicidal lamps for any application with custom-designed solutions and prototypes available

 

UV Treatment of Ballast Water for Large Flows

Ballast water is used when vessels take ocean water into special compartments, called ballasts, to provide stability and optimal waterline on a ship’s hull. Ballast water is either taken onto the ship or released back into the ocean as cargo is loaded or unloaded to maintain balance and structural integrity. The practice of adding ballast water in one port and releasing it into a foreign port has caused a huge detrimental impact on communities worldwide with harmful bio invasion.  UV treatment of ballast water to kill or neutralize the organisms in ballast water is a proven treatment technology for large vessels and tankers.

With the increase in global trade in the last few decades, 90% of global trade is now transported by sea. When ships began utilizing steel hulls, the opportunity to use ballast water for stability greatly increased the practice of ballast water exchange. Each year up to 12 billion tons of ballast water is dumped around the world, releasing aquatic organisms that are not native to the environment they are released in. These foreign invaders include marine sea creatures, bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms naked to the human eye and have also been known to include things like toxic algae and Cholera which have caused serious illness and even death to people in affected communities. Bio invasions from contaminated ballast water are recognized as one of the top four greatest threats facing the sustainability of the world’s oceans. Contaminated ballast water causing harmful bio invasion is a serious threat facing oceans today along with physical destruction and alteration of marine habitats, the overexploitation of living marine resources, and marine pollution caused by land-based sources.

Ballast Water Management Convention

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) in 2004 which established standards and procedures to prevent the spread of harmful marine organisms from one port to another region. The most recent ratification by the required number of global states makes the BWMC globally enforceable to all ships traveling through international waters, effective September 8, 2017. All ships traveling through international waters are required to manage ballast water and sediments with a ballast water management system. All ships must maintain a ballast water management certificate along with the record book, which is subject to inspection by any port authority. Newly constructed vessels must have an onboard ballast water treatment system while existing ships encounter phased-in requirements. Ballast water treatment systems must meet IMO guidelines and US Coast Guard approval. There are basically three types of ballast water treatment technologies which include:

·        Physical / Mechanical filtration

·        Chemical / Electrochlorination

·        UV Treatment with UVC germicidal technology

Compliant ballast water treatment technologies must actively remove, neutralize, or kill organisms prior to discharge. This differs from conventional methods which required ships to exchange ballast water mid-ocean or at least 50 nautical miles from shore. UV treatment of ballast water is gaining popularity as ship owners and operators are realizing the many advantages of this environmentally friendly ballast water treatment system.

UV Treatment of Ballast Water in Large Vessels

UV treatment offers many advantages over other treatment technologies and is changing the thinking of shipowners when it comes to large vessels and tankers. Electro-chlorination has been popular for large flow vessels, although UV ballast water treatment systems are proven highly competitive with respect to power consumption, footprint, safety, and effectiveness. Modern solutions that incorporate specially designed UVC germicidal lamps easily compete on footprint and power consumption even at high flows at or above 1500–3000 m3/h. Lower operating costs combined with simple operation and highly effective germicidal results are tipping the scale towards ultraviolet treatment.

UV Treatment of Ballast Water Versus Electrochlorination

Power Consumption

UV treatment of ballast water is proven to provide similar power consumption as electro-chlorination water treatment systems, with additional recognized advantages. Electro-chlorination treatment systems depend upon the salinity and temperature of seawater, using significantly more power in low-salinity or low-temperature conditions. UV ballast water treatment systems are completely unaffected and operate independently of water temperature or salinity.

Footprint

UV ballast water treatment systems can be configured to match the footprint and water flow of a particular vessel and can even be smaller than electrochlorination systems. UV water treatment systems also require less space than electrochlorination treatment systems as there is no need to handle and store chemicals. UV ballast water treatment systems are also less costly and easier to install.

Safety

Chlorination systems may require additional ventilation, explosion-proof storage compartments, and safety training for the crew. Electrochlorination produces both chlorine and hydrogen gases which are toxic and highly flammable when mixed. UV water treatment systems are safe, simple to handle and chemical-free. UV germicidal lamps produce no harmful by-products and do not require additional measures to prevent corrosion or neutralize oxidants. UV ballast water treatment methods offer these benefits with power consumption, footprint, and safety as well as many additional operational advantages. UVC germicidal technology is proven to quickly eradicate bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms naked to the human eye. UV radiation when emitted at 254 nm instantly penetrates the DNA of these living cells, rendering them unable to replicate and harmless.

LightSources Offers UV Lamps for Ballast Water Treatment

LightSources is a leading global supplier and recognized authority on UV lamps and UVC germicidal solutions. We offer a wide selection of germicidal lamps proven effective in surface, water, and air disinfection systems found worldwide. Our skilled engineers possess in-depth expertise of UV radiation and custom development of germicidal lamps to meet your specifications.

 

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.

 

Ozone Light Bulbs with High Quality Quartz Glass

Ozone is naturally produced from ultraviolet light, with ozone light bulbs replicating the UV wavelength needed to produce ozone. When we hear the word ozone, we think of the ozone layer in the atmosphere. This ozone layer is produced from UV light, and filters most of the UV light from the sun.

UV light is emitted at a frequency that is higher than visible light, which is in the range of 400 to 700 nanometer (nm). Ultraviolet light, is beyond the highest frequency of visible light, which is violet, and is emitted from the sun within the range of 100 to 315 nm. Most of this is filtered through the ozone layer in the atmosphere.

UV light emitted in short wavelengths, between 160 and 240 nm, will produce ozone through a process called photolysis of oxygen (O2). This process disrupts the molecule to create valent oxygen atoms that attach to individual oxygen molecules and creates ozone (O3).

Ozone Provides Natural Germicidal Effectiveness

Ultraviolet radiation emitted at 254 nm is proven to deliver highly effective germicidal properties by killing germs and harmful bacteria. UV wavelengths in the range of 185 nm are effective to create ozone, which eliminates contaminants in air, water and surfaces and also acts as a natural oxidizer to eliminate foul odor in the air.

UVC Ozone Light Bulbs

Ozone light bulbs produce UV radiation at less than 220 nm, in the range of 185nm, to effectively decompress the oxygen (O2) in the air which produces ozone (O3). UVC ozone lamps also eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as mercaptans, sulfides, and ammonia. One of the greatest advantages of ozone light is that it is carried through the air to places where direct UV exposure cannot reach.

UVC light bulbs emitting 254 nm wavelengths instantly eradicate viruses and bacteria upon exposure, combined with ozone-generating light bulbs, a UV air purification system delivers additional deodorizing properties.

LightSources Delivers UVC Ozone Lamps

LightSources is a world-leading supplier of fluorescent and UV lamps, including UVC germicidal and ozone light bulbs. We construct ozone lamps with the highest quality quartz glass and determine UV emissions with the type of fused quartz used in manufacturing germicidal lamp envelopes. UV lamps which emit radiation within the range of 100 to 280 nm provide the most effective germicidal power.

LightSources manufactures ozone lamps with Very High (VH) lamp design which is constructed with quality clear fused quartz. We offer Low (L) germicidal lamps which provide effective disinfection at 254 nm and include specially doped fused quartz to prohibit UV radiation at 185nm. Lamps constructed with clear quartz allow the uninterrupted emission of 185 nm in ozone light lamps.

You can find our VH lamps in a multitude of germicidal processes such as water disinfection applications. UVC ozone lamps are used in water disinfection applications such as pools and spas, water reclamation, municipalities, ballast water treatment, life sciences, and many other water purification processes.

Ozone lamps are also found in air purification systems in HVAC systems and many commercial, industrial, and residential air treatment systems. UVC germicidal lamps also aid surface disinfection processes used in the food and beverage industry, grocery stores, restaurants, and medical applications.

The LightSources Group Supports OEMs Large and Small

The LightSources Group is regarded as an authority and leading supplier of fluorescent and UV lamps and lighting solutions. We are committed to research and development, offering several first-to-market, patented products developed with proprietary technology. Our skilled engineers are the best in the business with an in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and custom-designed solutions with quality components and custom phosphor blends.

We manufacture Low-Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps which we construct with either soda lime glass or quartz glass to provide either 185 nm or 254 nm to allow the right UV radiation to pass through unmodified. Our Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps emit broadband UV radiation as opposed to narrowband and are similar to high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps.

Whatever your germicidal application calls for, LightSources offers a wide selection of standard products as well as providing custom designed solutions to meet specific requirements. Our engineering team will design your germicidal lamps with the right amount of ozone emission with careful construction and combination of two types of quartz. We follow a strict quality policy as part of our ISO9001:2015 certification, offering vast resources and quick turnaround time for production and prototype solutions.

 

Ballast Water System Solutions

A ballast water system is used in ships and large vessels to maintain balance and ideal buoyancy while loading or unloading cargo and while sailing through the water. Due to the increase in global shipping, especially in the past decade, 90% of all global trade is transported by sea. The number of ships using ballast water has increased significantly and is a very common practice.

While ballast water may provide ideal buoyancy and improve the safe operation of ships, this practice brings very dangerous threats to fishing ports, communities, local environments, and economies. When ships pick up ballast water in one port and release it in another, the introduction of invasive aquatic species and harmful marine organisms seriously threatens the sustainability of marine ecosystems. In fact, untreated ballast water exchange is considered to be one of the top four threats facing the sustainability of the world’s oceans.

The Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) establishes procedures for the safe handling and treatment of ballast water to prevent the spread of harmful bio invasions. The convention was adopted by Finland in 2016, triggering the ratification for international compliance. While the United States has not been a party to the BWMC, the U.S. has adopted stricter regulations than those imposed by the IMO and requires all ships discharging ballast water in US waters to maintain a US Coast Guard-approved ballast water treatment system.

How Ballast Water Systems Work

Since the introduction of steel hulls in ships, the practice of using ballast water has become commonplace. A large vessel may have the capacity to hold millions of gallons of water in its ballast. Ships may discharge ballast water tanks to improve handling conditions such as discharging ballast water to allow passage through a shallow area or discharging forward tanks only to raise the bow when in turbulent open seas.

While there is some controversy as to the best method of maintaining buoyancy and safe handling in ships, the fact remains that using ballast water is a very common practice in the majority of ships and tankers worldwide. Some experts would like alternative methods for the safe handling of ships as releasing ballast water takes time and not every situation allows time to discharge treated ballast water tanks. The ballast water system consists of water intakes, strainers, pumps, distribution pipes, ballast water holding tanks, chosen treatment technology, and a discharge system including all valves, sensors and controls.

Discharge Water Threats and Catastrophes

The millions of gallons of seawater drawn into ballast water systems have had catastrophic results on the affected areas of discharge. Invasive species including marine life and plant life are able to survive and travel in untreated ballast water tanks and seriously threaten communities where these bio invaders are released. Examples of ships’ ballast water wreaking havoc with catastrophic results include:

·        In 1988, a ship released ballast water into the Great Lakes system along with Zebra Mussels which invaded Lake Saint Clair. The invading Zebra mussels eliminated all native varieties and clogged underwater industrial equipment, causing an estimated $7 billion in damages.

·        Toxic algae comes in various red, brown, and green species with several species having been transferred through ships’ ballast water. Toxic algae can form harmful algae blooms that kill native marine life through the release of toxins and oxygen depletion. Toxic algae contaminates beaches which impacts recreational activities and tourism as well as affecting fishing industries. Consuming shellfish that have been contaminated with toxic algae has been proven to make people severely ill and even cause death.

·        The European Green crab is native to the European Atlantic Coast but has been introduced to the United States, Japan, South Africa, and South Australia through contaminated ballast water. These invasive crabs are highly adaptable and quickly become a dominant species that displaces all native crabs along with depleting many other species of marine life.

These are just a few examples of the harmful effects that contaminated ballast water has had on the environment, human health, and economies. It is clear to see why the United States along with the IMO is enforcing ballast water systems that remove harmful invading species, algae, bacteria, and harmful sentiments.

Water Treatment Methods and Solutions

Ballast water treatment methods are faced with challenges such as the need to discharge ballast water quickly when loading cargo or in emergency situations. Ballast water tanks must pass ballast water through a treatment system quickly while effectively killing harmful organisms. Some ballast water treatment solutions include:

Rules on where ballast water may be discharged or exchanged. Ballast water discharge is governed by local, national and international law. While the most recent ratification of the BWMC requires all newly constructed vessels to contain a ballast water treatment system, interim solutions require ships to exchange ballast water mid ocean. The United States requires all ships to exchange ballast water beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), at least 200 nautical miles from shore and in an area that is at least 2,000 meters deep.

Mechanical filtration. Physical treatment solutions such as filtering the water with a fine filter system to prevent small invasive species from passing through it is only partially effective. The filtration system clogs quickly and does not stop bacteria or viruses naked to the human eye.

Chemical treatment. Treating ballast water with chlorine bleach and other toxic chemicals is one of the earliest methods of ballast water system treatments and is also one of the most dangerous. Releasing these chemicals into natural seawater will also harm existing organisms as the toxic level required to treat the millions of gallons in ships’ ballast water systems will create toxic levels for aquatic life near the releasing area.

UV ballast water treatment technology. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is used in a multitude of applications worldwide and has highly effective germicidal properties. UV radiation, when emitted at 254 nm, instantly penetrates cells of living organisms and alters the DNA to render them harmless without the ability to replicate. UVC germicidal lamps are used in many water disinfection applications as well as in air treatment systems and surface disinfection processes.

Advantages of UV Ballast Water Treatment Systems

Effectiveness. UV radiation is highly effective in eradicating viruses, bacteria, harmful marine organisms, and bio invaders naked to the human eye. UV radiation is effective regardless of the temperature or salinity of water.

Small Footprint. UV lamps used in ballast water treatment systems are designed with a small footprint to fit into compact water treatment systems, which can be custom-designed to match the space available in each vessel.

Little to no maintenance. A UV ballast water treatment system is easy to install and easy to maintain. Unlike chemical treatment systems, with UV water treatment systems there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of harmful chemicals.

Safe. While UVC radiation is highly effective in germicidal applications it is completely safe for humans and poses no risk with harmful by-products such as those generated from chemical treatment.

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps for Ballast Water Systems

The LightSources Group is a leading manufacturer of UV lamps and UVC germicidal solutions. LightSources offers proven solutions with Low-Pressure Pellet Amalgam lamps developed with proprietary technology. Medium-pressure UV is also highly effective in water disinfection with a small footprint. Lighting engineers at LightSources understand how to harness the power of UVC radiation with custom-designed lamps and custom phosphor blends to meet the demands of any germicidal application.