Monday, December 30, 2024

Quality Lamps Enhance Benefits of UV Air Purifier Systems


UV air purifier
systems are highly effective at disinfecting and purifying the air, proven to eradicate bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, spores, dust mites, and many other contaminants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). UVC lamps generate UV radiation at 254 nanometer (nm) which is required to penetrate the nucleic acid of the harmful cells, altering the DNA to render it harmless and unable to reproduce. UV radiation emitted at 185nm generates ozone which effectively removes odors from the air.

UV air purification systems are proven to be very effective at providing clean and healthy air and offer many benefits across a multitude of applications worldwide.

UV Air Purifiers Improve Health in Many Environments

UV air purifiers are used in many environments and commercial applications to improve the health and well-being of residents and visitors. UV germicidal lamps are commonly used in HVAC systems in public settings such businesses, hospitals, schools, labs and are also available for residential use to provide clean and healthy air to homeowners. UV air purification promotes the health of employees when used in commercial settings, improving productivity and reducing downtime associated with airborne illnesses.

Clean air is especially important to patients in hospitals and medical facilities as these individuals may already have a compromised immune system. Medical facilities and scientific labs must also have clean air free from germs and live organisms. Schools can be a breeding ground for the spread of germs and illnesses. Utilizing UV air purification in schools and campuses can drastically cut down on the spread of germs and diseases, decreasing student and faculty illnesses.

Benefits of UV Air Purifier Systems

UV air purifier systems provide many benefits over other methods of air purification. These benefits can be quite significant and include the following:
  • Quick results – UV air purification systems effectively kill harmful contaminants in just a few seconds of exposure
  • Easy to Operate – UV air purifiers are very simple to maintain as there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of any chemicals
  • Low Maintenance – Very little if any maintenance is required other than changing a bulb and keeping your system clean
  • Safe to Operate – UV air purification systems are safe to operate. While contaminants are eradicated at the optimum wavelength, UV germicidal lamps are completely safe for human exposure
  • Affordable and Cost-Effective – High-quality UVC germicidal lamps offer the most value with long-lasting high performance providing highly cost-effective air purification solutions
UV air purification provides these advantages and many others. With fast and effective results, ease of use and maintaining and affordable options with long lasting high-quality lamps, UV germicidal lamps provide unsurpassed performance and value.

Working with an experienced UV lamp manufacturer will ensure that you receive the most effective UVC germicidal solution. Quality lamps are the key to any successful UV germicidal application.

LightSources Offers High-Quality UV Air Purifier Lamps and Accessories

LightSources and our strategic European partner, LightTech, offer high-quality UV air purifier lamps and accessories proven to provide long-lasting, high-performance. We design, engineer and manufacture UV C germicidal lamps used in disinfection and purification systems around the world. Most of our UV germicidal lamps are Low and Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps.

Our Low-Pressure UVC lamps are similar in operation and construction to standard fluorescent lamps although our germicidal lamps are made with quartz or soda-lime glass and do not include the phosphate coating of fluorescent lamps which allows for more UVC radiation to pass through.

Low-pressure amalgam lamps are ideal in situations requiring long-term germicidal applications, especially in environments with fluctuations in ambient temperature. The Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps are similar to the High-Intensity Discharge lamps, as they emit a broadband UV emission rather than a narrow band.

Advantages of UVC Germicidal Lamps from LightSources

The LightSources Group offers many advantages including decades of experience, expertise in lighting technology, and vast global resources which allow us to provide quality products and on-time delivery. We provide standard or customized lamp solutions developed in our modern, state-of-the-art glass factory. LightSources conducts continual research and development to provide high-performing, energy-efficient lamps and lighting solutions.

High Output UV C quartz germicidal lamps from LightSources provide nearly double the UVC radiation when compared to standard germicidal lamps in similar ambient temperatures. Our standard quartz germicidal lamps warm up fast in only 30 to 60 seconds and convert electricity up to 40% into UVC radiation. LightSources offers patented spot amalgam technology with robust designed filaments which withstand operating on higher currents.

UVC germicidal lamps are proven to be safe and effective, eliminating harmful bacteria, viruses and microorganisms from air, water and surfaces. UV air purifier systems provide clean and healthy air in homes and businesses around the world.

Friday, December 27, 2024

UV Water Purifier Using UVC Radiation


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.

Friday, November 29, 2024

How Does a 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 performance 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.

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Light Therapy for Psoriasis is Proven Effective


Light therapy for psoriasis
is proven to be an effective method of treatment. Psoriasis is a disease that causes red, scaly patches which appear raised on the skin typically on the scalp, knees and elbows. This bothersome skin condition is an immune-mediated disease that can be associated with other serious health conditions such as depression, heart disease and diabetes. You should see your doctor if you develop a persistent rash that is not helped with over the counter medication.

The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, although we do know that it is a disease caused by the immune system. Genetics are also a known factor in the development of psoriasis. In people with psoriasis the skin cells grow abnormally fast which leads to the buildup of skin lesions. Both women and men develop psoriasis at the same rate with something usually triggering a flare up. Psoriasis can develop at any age although usually shows first signs within the age range of 15 to 35.

Psoriasis is diagnosed by a dermatologist or other medical provider after an examination. Your doctor may conduct a biopsy of the affected skin under a microscope, which will present as inflamed and thicker than normal skin and eczema. While conventional treatments provide some relief to patients, phototherapy lamps are providing relief with proven results.

Light Therapy for Psoriasis Treats Different Types

Light therapy for psoriasis on effective the varying types of this skin condition. You should learn which type of psoriasis you have to help determine the best treatment. Your doctor can prescribe the best course of action, which may include phototherapy with a specialty UV lamp. The five types of psoriasis include:

Plaque Psoriasis – this is the most common type of this skin condition with red patches of raised skin that are often painful and itchy, showing most commonly on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp.

Guttate Psoriasis – this form of psoriasis usually first appears in childhood or as a young adult as small, dot-like lesions and may be triggered by a strep infection. After plaque psoriasis, this is the second most common type.

Inverse Psoriasis – this type of psoriasis appears in folds of the body such as the groin, armpit and behind the knee appearing as smooth, shiny skin.

Pustular Psoriasis – this type appears as white pustules or blisters surrounded by skin. The pus consists of white blood cells and is not contagious. This appears mostly on the feet and hands but may appear anywhere on the body.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis – this is a severe type of psoriasis leading to fiery red skin spread out over most of the body, leading to the skin coming off in sheets and causing severe pain and itching. It is the rarest of the of types with only 3 percent of people suffering with psoriasis having this type. It typically appears on patients with unstable plaque psoriasis. This form can be life threatening during a flare up and patients should seek medical attention immediately.

Light Therapy for Psoriasis Treatment

Phototherapy with UV lamps to treat psoriasis expose the skin to UV light under medical supervision on a consistent basis. A UV lamp for psoriasis is not the same thing as using a tanning bed, in fact it can be quite harmful and make symptoms worse as the wavelength of UVA and UVB are not the same as in a specially designed phototherapy lamp.

There are different types of light therapy to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, which include:

  • Ultraviolet light B (UVB)
  • Sunlight
  • Psoralen + UVA (PUVA)

UVB Phototherapy for Psoriasis

UVB is present in natural sunlight and proven to be an effective treatment for psoriasis. UVB treatment is administered either at home under a doctor’s direction or in a medical setting. If administering light therapy for psoriasis from home, it is critical to follow your physician’s orders and maintain follow up visits. UVB wavelengths penetrate the skin in either a broad band or narrow band. Narrow band UVB releases a narrower, or smaller, range of UV light.

Your doctor can help to determine which type of UVB wavelength would be best for your skin. Patients may experience initial irritation which should lessen with continued exposure. UVB may be combined with systematic agents or topical medications to increase the effectiveness. UVB phototherapy may administered in various way which include small lamp units for localized treatment to feet, hands or specific areas or a full body unit.

The proper type of UVB lamp must be used for effective treatment without causing damage and irritation to the skin.

Sunlight

Both UVA and UVB are found in natural sunlight, although UVB works best to treat psoriasis. If attempting to improve psoriasis with natural sunlight therapy, short bursts of exposure are recommended for 5 to 10 minutes at noon daily. All areas should receive equal exposure and sunscreen should be worn to prevent damage and worsening of conditions. Patients should continue to see their doctor to check for improvement or damage from the sun. Improvement in symptoms may be seen in several weeks. Patients taking medication to enhance light sensitivity such as Psoralen should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun unless under a doctor’s care.

Psoralen with UVA (PUVA)

UVA is present in natural sunlight along with UVB, although UVA is generally not as effective in treating psoriasis without the use of a mediation to enhance light sensitivity. Psoralen is administered by a doctor either orally or topically and helps to slow down the excessive growth of skin cells which helps to clear symptoms. PUVA treatment is most effective on plaque psoriasis in stable condition, guttate psoriasis and symptoms appearing on the feet and hands.

LightSources Offers UV Phototherapy Lamps for Psoriasis

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions to a wide range of industries and applications. We offer decades of experience and lighting engineers with in-depth understanding of UV technology. LightSources and our valued European partner, LightTech, are committed to continual research and development to deliver first to market, patented products which outperform the competition with effectiveness, long lasting high performance and cost saving energy efficiencies.

We understand the technology that goes into every UV lamp offering custom designed lamps with specific wavelengths derived from custom blend phosphors. LightSources assists OEMs and manufacturers with developing proprietary products to increase their own brand awareness. When you need lamps or lighting solutions for any purpose, including phototherapy lamps to treat various conditions, contact the lighting specialists at LightSources.

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Find the Best Lamps for Light Therapy for Depression


Using specially designed phototherapy lamps, many people are experiencing relief from a host of medical ailments including the use of light therapy for depression. Ultraviolet radiation has been proven to provide many healthy benefits such as effective air purification. When used properly, UV light can treat many skin conditions and mood disorders.

Light therapy is used to treat acne, eczema, vitiligo, psoriasis, seasonal depression and is even being used to treat non-seasonal depression. Phototherapy should only be used under the care of a physician and is sometimes used in conjunction with other treatment methods such as antidepressants and counseling. Your physician will know which course of treatment is right for you and how to prescribe the right type of lamp with the most effective exposure.

Why You Might Consider Light Therapy for Depression

There are many reasons why you might want to try light therapy for depression, some of the most common reasons include:Pregnant or nursing women must avoid certain antidepressants
Used in conjunction with antidepressants it may decrease the amount of prescription medication necessary

Light therapy may increase the effectiveness of prescription antidepressants

Phototherapy may elevate mood to improve the effectiveness of counseling
Light therapy has very few side effects and is considered to be a very safe treatment

Your doctor may recommend light therapy

Artificial light is proven to help treat seasonal mood disorders and non-seasonal depression as well. Light therapy emits the right amount of UV exposure to elevate mood much like natural sunlight. This helps people suffering from depression by triggering the brain to increase production of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that acts much like antidepressants. This increase in the level of serotonin is proven to help treat non-seasonal depression as well.
Light Therapy for Seasonal Depression

SAD usually affects people living in the Northern Hemisphere during the fall and winter months when exposure to sunlight and daylight hours is significantly reduced. You should speak with your doctor if you experience any symptoms of SAD which include:Losing interest in normal activities
Food cravings especially foods high in carbs
Withdrawing socially
Gaining weight
Fatigue

Light therapy is recognized by the American Psychological Association, as effective treatment for SAD, providing relief to approximately 50% of patients treated. This increases significantly to an improvement in about 80% of patients when the light therapy is customized to an individual’s sleep and wake cycle. The typical treatment includes about 30 minutes of exposure in the morning with a fluorescent white light. Most patients experience an improvement in one week of light therapy for seasonal depression.
Light Therapy for Nonseasonal Depression and Other Conditions

Light therapy is also used to treat nonseasonal depression and many other conditions such as:Depression not caused from changing seasons
Dementia
Jet Lag
Adjusting to night work schedules
Sleep Disorders

Light therapy is successful in treating many conditions including nonseasonal depression and various sleep disorders. People suffering from circadian rhythm disorders have difficulty with regulating regular wake and sleep patterns. This is common in people that work night shifts or people that experience jet lag. A person’s circadian rhythm is like the internal clock that tells the body to become more alert when daylight begins and more tired when daylight diminishes.

Light therapy is proven highly effective at treating a wide range of sleep disorders by helping to “re-set” the internal clock which promotes regular sleep patterns. Light therapy for sleep disorders should be conducted only under the care of a physician experienced in sleep disorders.
LightSources Offers Effective UV Lamps for Light Therapy for Depression

The LightSources Group is recognized as a leading global supplier of high quality, energy efficient and highly effective UV lamp solutions used in a wide range of applications. Our full spectrum UV lamps for depression are specially designed and manufactured with rare Earth phosphors which produce a clear and bright white light with a high coloring index (CRI) in the range of 90 to 100. We design, engineer and manufacture phototherapy lamps used in a wide range of medical uses.

Our lamps are used worldwide for many therapeutic purposes including skin conditions, sleep disorders and light therapy for depression. Our skilled and experienced lighting engineers understand the technology behind the UV radiation and offer in-depth expertise in designing UV lamps with the exact amount of bandwidth and UV exposure prescribed by physicians for many health conditions.

Monday, October 28, 2024

Where to Find the Best UV Light Air Purifier


UV light air purifier
systems are one of the most cost-effective and safest methods used to purify the air we breathe. UV air purification systems are used in municipalities and industrial applications to remove harmful contaminants from the air and eliminate odors. UV light air purification helps industries in complying with strict regulations regarding air quality while offering many benefits over other air purification methods.

UV Light Air Purifier is Environmentally Friendly

UV light air purifiers are environmentally friendly as they do not require the use of harmful or toxic chemicals, yet they are extremely effective at disinfecting and purifying the air. Since UV air purifiers operate without the use of chemicals, there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of harmful chemicals or byproducts. In addition to clean air purification methods, UV air purifiers use energy-efficient UVC germicidal lamps, creating an even more environmentally friendly operation.

UV light air purifiers are available in compact designs that make them simple to operate and easy to maintain. With long-lasting UVC germicidal lamps, UV air purifiers save time and money with very little ongoing maintenance required.

UVC Radiation Offers Powerful Germicidal Effectiveness

UVC radiation is proven to quickly and effectively destroy airborne contaminants including bacteria, fungi, mold, viruses, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). By penetrating the nuclei of the harmful cells, UVC radiation immediately renders them harmless and unable to replicate. UV air purifiers operate with UVC germicidal lamps designed to emit specific wavelengths at 254 nanometers (nm), which is the most effective band of UVC radiation that instantly destroys the cells of harmful contaminants.

UV Light Air Purifiers Benefit Many Industrial Applications

UVC germicidal lamps help to prevent the spread of airborne illnesses in many residential and commercial settings. UVC light air purifiers are utilized in many commercial buildings to provide safe and clean air for workers and visitors and are also becoming quite popular in more residential settings. Healthcare facilities benefit from UV light air purifiers by providing clean air to patients who may already have a compromised immune system. Many facilities such as hospitals, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers provide safe and clean air to patients with UV light air purification.

Many industrial applications are realizing the benefits of UV air purification to provide a safer workplace while meeting strict air quality codes and regulations. UV air purifiers are used in many applications to eliminate toxic chemicals produced during certain applications such as plastic, rubber, or wood surfacing treatment processes. Companies can reduce their output of harmful compounds while protecting their employees with cleaner and safer air.

UV air purification systems can be installed in new existing HVAC units to eliminate the spread of air pollutants including bacteria, viruses, parasites, dust mites, mold spores, and fungi. UV air purifiers are easy to maintain and reduce the maintenance required to clean air ducts as the UVC radiation keeps coils clean while disinfecting the air. Make sure that you consult with a UVC germicidal specialist before purchasing your UV air purifier and UVC germicidal lamps.

LightSources Offers Custom UVC Germicidal Lamps for Air Purification

Not all UV lamps are made the same and that is especially true for UVC germicidal lamps. To obtain the quality results you desire, it is important to be sure you are working with quality products and lamps proven to provide effective disinfection. LightSources and LightTech offer the most effective UVC germicidal lamps available today, proven effective in a multitude of applications worldwide.

LightSources offers vast resources to provide quick turnaround on production requirements including prototype and custom-designed lamps. We offer custom-designed lamp diameter and length, ceramic bases, and sockets customizable right down to matching your own logo colors. Our UVC germicidal lamps are used in many purification systems worldwide including air, surface, and water disinfection applications.

LightSources helps many industries and municipalities with UVC germicidal lamps to effectively treat water in reclamation operations, wastewater treatment plants, ballast water treatment on ships, aquariums, fish hatcheries, and many other water disinfection processes. UVC germicidal lamps help to keep food fresh and safe in grocery stores, restaurants, and other food and beverage industrial applications.

Monday, September 30, 2024

UV Disinfection Eliminates Germs Chlorine Doesn’t


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:
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.

Friday, September 27, 2024

UV Light Kills Bacteria in Air Treatment Systems


UV light kills bacteria in many disinfection and purification systems, providing clean air and water to a multitude of applications. When ultraviolet (UV) light is emitted at the wavelength of 254 nanometers (nm), the UVC radiation is instantly effective at eradicating all harmful contaminants and microorganisms. UVC radiation at 254nm instantly penetrates the cells of these microscopic invaders within seconds of exposure, damaging the nuclei of the cells to render them harmless.

UV light kills bacteria, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fungi, mold spores, mildew, and other harmful contaminants in surface, water, and air treatment systems. UV germicidal lamps provide clean and safe air in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. People can enjoy clean and safe air free from harmful bacteria in their home while many businesses provide clean air in their establishments to maintain a healthy environment for their employees and the public.

It is important to provide clean air free from harmful viruses and bacteria in many commercial settings such as medical facilities, doctor offices, schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Patients with a compromised immune system are at an increased risk of contracting illness through airborne germs. A UV light air treatment system promotes health and wellness and prevents the spread of disease.

Benefits of Air Treatment Systems with UV Light to Kill Bacteria and Viruses

Many industrial settings also provide the benefits of UVC air purification to provide a healthier workplace for their employees and visitors and to comply with strict air quality codes and regulations. Many industrial applications such as rubber, plastic manufacturing, and woodworking facilities produce toxic chemicals in their production processes. UV light kills these toxic airborne compounds and protects the public with safer and cleaner air.

While the health benefits are clear, breathing cleaner air into our lungs improves wellness and protects against disease, there are other benefits as well. UV light air purification systems are completely safe, with no harmful chemicals or byproducts. UV lamps in HVAC systems provide long-lasting improvements in air quality with very little to no maintenance required. Keeping your HVAC and air ducts free from mold, mildew, and contaminants provides added protection to your HVAC equipment for longer-lasting, smooth operation.

Working with a UV lamp supplier with extensive experience in UVC germicidal technology will ensure the proper UV lights for your anti-bacterial application.

UV Light Kills Bacteria in Germicidal Applications

LightSources is recognized as an authority on UVC germicidal technology, offering patented products for long-lasting UV lights that effectively kill bacteria and all harmful microorganisms. We design, engineer, and manufacture UV lights used in water, surface, and air disinfection systems worldwide. We provide a wide selection of Low Pressure and Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps, with custom-engineered solutions available.

Our Low-Pressure UV germicidal lamps are similar in construction and operation to standard fluorescent lights, although the UVC lamps do not include the phosphate coating present in fluorescent lamps. This allows more UVC radiation to pass through the quartz or soda-lime glass. Low-Pressure Amalgam UVC lamps provide ideal germ-killing effectiveness even in applications with ambient temperature fluctuations.

Our Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge lamps emit broadband wavelengths rather than narrowband, similar to High-Intensity Discharge lamps. Consulting with an engineer is the best way to obtain the ideal UV light to kill the bacteria and harmful contaminants in your application. The LightSources Group consists of the leading high-tech lamp designers available, offering expertise and an understanding of the technology behind UVC germicidal technology combined with superior lamp construction.

LightSources assists businesses across a wide range of industries including municipalities in obtaining highly effective germ-killing disinfection in many purification systems. We offer UV light disinfection to wastewater treatment facilities, ballast water treatment systems, and reclamation applications. Our UV lights are used to kill bacteria in restaurants, grocery stores, food and beverage processing plants, and many other commercial and industrial applications. Our UV lamps are proven to improve processes with effective, high performance which outlasts comparable lamps, for maximum energy savings and cost efficiency.

Friday, August 30, 2024

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.

 

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

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.

 

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

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.

 

Monday, July 29, 2024

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

 

Friday, June 28, 2024

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.