Leading Patented Technology in High-Caliber Lampholders

Along with our valued partners Voltarc and LCD Lighting, the LightSources Group has developed the most advanced, high-caliber electrical wiring devices and incandescent lampholders in the industry. Our innovative designs combined with patented technology provide superior lamp components with extraordinary long-life combined with convenient features for safety and durability.

LightSources and its affiliated companies have been designing, engineering and manufacturing customized lighting solutions for over 30 years. With vast expertise in UV germicidal lamps, UV ballast water treatment, UV air treatment, UV curing bulbs, specialty fluorescent lamps, tanning lamps, and outdoor sign products, we have the team and resources to make lamp designs a reality.

With dozens of designs and styles to choose from, LightSources offers standard or custom designed lampholders for virtually any application, indoor or outdoor with UL listed CSA approved equipment.

Ground Fault Protection

Voltarc is a leader in the lighted sign industry, with patented Dead Front housing technology to protect your equipment from ground faults. This innovative design eliminates rivets in the face of the lampholder, completely isolating it from the ground. A key component of this design is the Fabulex™ mounting clip manufactured from thermoplastic engineering resin with durable properties of 9,000 PSI Shear Strength and a Tensile Elongation Strength of -68° F to 158° F. Voltarc’s patented O-rings are specially designed for long life with no drying, featuring a blue silicone treatment for water and condensation resistance which prevents bonding during re-lamping.

Kulka® IS-Series Lampholders

The Kulka IS-Series is specially designed for Electronic Sign Ballasts, with an integrated shunt design used for instant start ballasts. The IS-Series are the only lampholders to feature new single Leadwire technology. Patented Red-O Ring technology distinguishes this single lead wire lampholder from the two lead Blue-O Ring technology for safe and simple operation. The Kulka IS-Series of lampholders are all UL listed with the Circle I Rating, and CSA approved.

572 & 573 Series Slimline & Cold Cathode Lampholders

Additional Kulka wiring devices offered by Voltarc include the 572 and 573 Series of Slimline Cold Cathode Lampholders. The slimline 572 lampholder is rated for 660 Watts at 1000V, while the 573 is rated for 660 Watts at 600V. These can be mounted with various brackets or with butt-on mounting. All Slimline series lampholders are UL listed and CSA certified for outdoor use in enclosed signs and fixtures.

582.GDF & 583.GDF Stationary or Spring-Loaded Series

Voltarc’s 582.GDF™ and 583.GDF™ Series lampholders are Recessed Double Contact Lampholders suitable for 800 and 1500mA Lamps. These lampholders contain no metal clips therefore there is no risk of electrical grounding or corrosion. This stationary series of lampholders completely isolates the socket face from the ground, and features our patented Blue O-Ring technology. The 582 and 583 series lampholders are UL listed and CSA certified for outdoor use in enclosed signs and fixtures.

530.1K & 530.2K Series Snap-In Lampholders

Convenient lampholders such as the snap-in series from Voltarc include the 530.1K™ & 530.2K™ Series Snap-In Recessed Double Contact Lampholders for 800 and 1500mA Lamps. The 530 series utilize a snap-in mounting system, and are rated at 660 Watts with dual rating of 600V or 1000V.

1550 Series Turn-Type Lampholders with Medium Bi-Pin

The 1550 series features medium bi-pin, in a turn type lampholder with slide-on mounting for 18 or 20-gauge panels. These lampholders can be wired at the factory for custom specifications with length, wire or strip material.

1640 Series Slide-On Lampholders

Voltarc also features the 1640 Series Slide-On Lampholders with recessed double contacts for 800 and 1500 mA Lamps. The 1640 Series of lampholders is ideal for outdoor application when they are enclosed properly. Each end features slide wire horizontal contacts. All slide-on lampholders are UL listed and CSA certified for outdoor use in enclosed signs and fixtures.

Voltarc and the LightSources group offer the most advanced lampholders in the lighting industry, with patented technology for any application. Our lighting components are manufactured with the highest of quality processes, providing patented solutions to OEMs around the globe. With a full line of standard components or the option to custom design your lighting solutions, we are sure to find the perfect lighting solution for your needs.

LightSources, Voltarc and LCD Lighting specialize in extraordinary design and manufacturing of specialty fluorescent lamps, low pressure UV lamps used in germicidal and UV curing applications, avionics display, and lamps used in medical applications. Contact LightSources for long-life fluorescent lamps and wiring components used in the lighted sign industry.

Ballast Water System Solutions

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

 

Control Odor with UVC Germicidal Technology

UV germicidal lamps which are designed to emit ozone provide effective and cost-efficient sterilization and deodorization. Ozone producing lamps are proven to meet strict air quality regulations in many industrial applications including removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odor causing contaminants. UV germicidal lamps are used in many industrial applications worldwide, commercial properties and residences to remove foul odor from the air.

Germicidal lamps are engineered to emit various effective wavelengths such as 254 nm which instantly eliminates bacteria and viruses by penetrating the DNA of cells and rendering them useless and unable to replicate. Germicidal lamps designed to emit 185 nm produce ozone which safely removes odor causing contaminants such as sulfides, mercaptans and ammonia. Ozone breaks these harmful organisms into less complex molecules through a process called oxidation.

UV air sterilization and oxidation systems breakdown water vapor molecules and ambient oxygen into hydroxyl free radicals and short-lived oxygen. Hydroxyl and oxygen provide instant breakdown of gases with very little byproducts.

LightSources Offers Ozone Producing Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is a leading supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions including highly effective germicidal lamps. We design, engineer and manufacture low-pressure Mercury lamps and low pressure Amalgam lamps with proven proprietary technology. Our low-pressure germicidal Mercury lamps include standard quartz and high output quartz lamps.

Our low pressure Amalgam lamps include proprietary pellet Amalgam technology and Spot Amalgam lamps. Elimination of water causing contaminants depends upon humidity, ambient air temperature, and the type of odor causing contaminants. Our experienced UV lighting engineers provide custom design solutions to meet specific requirements.

UV ozone lamps are used in wastewater treatment plants and sewage lift stations providing a small footprint and ease-of-use with low maintenance. These ozone lamps provide many health benefits by removing harmful contaminants, controlling odor and eliminating exposure to hydrogen sulfide which contributes to ill health effects.  UV ozone lamps provide many benefits such as eliminating the need to purchase, store and dispose of chemicals in providing effective sterilization without chemical byproducts.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions including germicidal lamps used worldwide in water, surface and air sterilization systems. We understand the technology of UV radiation and harness the power with custom phosphor blends and lamp components. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of UV sterilization and how to control and eliminate irritating and harmful odor from the air.

UV Ballast Water Treatment Is US Coast Guard Approved

The Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) was ratified by Finland in 2016 with the final votes of States necessary to enforce international compliance.  While the United States is not a party to the BWMC, the US follows even stricter regulations. Any ship which discharges ballast water in United States waters must maintain a ballast water treatment system approved by the US Coast Guard.

How Ships’ Ballast Water Systems Work

Ships use a ballast water system to maintain ideal buoyancy and balance when traveling through open water and one loading or unloading cargo.  A large ship will have the capacity to hold millions of gallons of water in their ballast water system. The problem occurs when ships pick up water in one port and discharge in a foreign port, also discharging microorganisms and Marine sea creatures which invade the foreign ports without natural predators.

Exchanging untreated ballast water is recognized as one of the top four greatest threats to the sustainability of the world’s oceans.  Invading marine organisms have had catastrophic results on fishing ports, devastating natural ecosystems and economies the communities depend upon. For example, invading zebra mussels multiplied to uncontrollable levels clogging underwater equipment in Lake St. Clair when discharged into the Great Lakes from ballast water in 1988. This incident caused an estimated $7 billion in damages.

UV Ballast Water Systems Offer Many Advantages

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is proven to have highly effective germicidal properties, with UVC germicidal lamps used worldwide in surface, water and air sterilization systems. UV ballast water treatment systems offer many advantages over other treatment technologies such as filtration or chemical use. UV ballast water treatment technology is approved by the US Coast Guard and offers the following benefits.

• Minimal maintenance required - UV water treatment systems are simple to install and maintain. Chemical treatment systems require purchasing, storing and disposing of harmful chemicals which can be toxic and require additional treatments. Filtration systems do not catch microscopic organisms naked to the human eye and will often get clogged up quickly.  
• Proven effective - UV radiation is proven to be highly effective at eliminating bacteria, viruses and harmful microorganisms regardless of water temperature or salinity.
• Safety  - UVC radiation eliminates harmful contaminants with germicidal effectiveness that is safe to humans and produces no harmful byproducts.
• Compact -  UV germicidal lamps support compact water treatment systems with a small footprint and maybe custom designed for specific requirements.

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps for Water Treatment Systems

The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide for providing high quality fluorescent and ultraviolet lamps and lighting solutions.  We offer a wide selection UV lamps including Low Pressure Amalgam lamps and Medium Pressure UV lamps developed with proprietary technology. The lighting engineers at the LightSources Group represents the leading high-tech lamp designers available in the industry, offering custom-designed and solutions including custom phosphor blends to meet your disinfection requirements.

The LightSources Group offers decades of experience, tight quality control and engineers with in-depth knowledge in developing effective germicidal solutions. Our UVC germicidal lamps are proven in air, water and surface sterilization applications worldwide. Contact us to learn how our UVC germicidal lamps benefit ballast water systems.

Is Your Ballast Water Treatment System Compliant?

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

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

Ballast Water Treatment Technologies

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

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

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

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps

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

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

US Coast Guard Approved Ballast Water Treatment System

According to the Ballast Water Treatment Convention all ships are prohibited from discharging untreated ballast water into US waters.  The International Maritime Organization (IMO) enforces the Convention through the Marine Environmental Protection Committee (MEPC) with all ships required to have approved ballast water treatment systems on board based on an international implementation schedule. The schedule depends on the construction date of the vessel and the ballast water capacity.

Untreated ballast water is recognized as one of the greatest threats to the world’s oceans when ships pick up water in one port and drop that same ballast water in foreign ports.  The contaminated ballast water contains marine organisms such as mussels or jellyfish which are known to take over when released into foreign waters without their natural predators. This has been known to threaten the functionality of dams, power plants and has completely destroyed ecosystems and fishing industries.

UV Ballast Water Treatment Systems Meet USCG Approval

UV radiation is proven in water treatment systems to successfully eliminate viruses, bacteria and harmful contaminants. UVC germicidal lamps emit UVC radiation at the optimum wavelength to instantly penetrate the cells of these living viruses and render them unable to replicate which completely eliminates any risk of infestation. UV radiation is a very simple and safe method of effective water sterilization.
The LightSources Group offers a wide selection of UVC germicidal lamps proven in water purification and sterilization applications such as:

• ballast water treatment systems
• municipalities water treatment systems
• fish hatcheries
• water reclamation
• life-sciences
• pool and spa
• aquaculture
• drinking water
• many commercial and industrial water treatment applications

The LightSources Group is recognized as an authority on UV radiation with experienced engineers knowledgeable in all areas of UV technology. Our low-pressure Amalgam lamps provide highly effective germicidal solutions with up to 35% more efficiency over comparable lamps. We offer medium pressure UV germicidal lamps proven for superior germicidal effectiveness.

The LightSources Group designs, engineers and manufacturers high-performance UV lamps and lighting solutions. We provide high tech solutions, custom designed lamps, bases components prototypes and full OEM support. Contact us to learn more about our UVC germicidal lamps solutions used in water and air treatment systems worldwide.

UVC Lamps for Ballast Water Treatment Systems

UVC germicidal lamps are proven effective in many water sterilization applications including ballast water treatment systems.  The Ballast Water Treatment Convention is enforced by the Marine Environment Protection Committee and requires all ships to maintain an approved ballast water treatment method. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an effective method of water sterilization approved by the US Coast Guard.

UV water treatment systems provide many benefits over other methods such as chemical use and filtration.  With a UVC water sterilization system, there is no requirement to purchase or store chemicals which continually costs money, takes up space and may leave harmful by products in the ocean or freshwater source.  UVC lamps can be specially designed to operate in confined spaces to provide an effective, approved water treatment method on smaller vessels.

LightSources Offers UVC Lamps for Water Sterilization

The LightSources Group is known for providing high-performance, high-quality UV lamps and lighting solutions. Our UVC germicidal lamps are used in water, surface and air sterilization systems worldwide. We design, engineer and manufacture UVC lamps proven to outlast and outperform comparable lamps. We offer OEM oriented solutions with custom-designed products, vast resources and exceptional customer support.

Our UV lamps for ballast water treatment systems are proven to eliminate harmful microorganisms, bacteria and aquatic viruses naked to the human eye. UV water treatment systems kill viruses and bacteria that chlorine doesn’t and prevents the spread and infestation of harmful invading aquatic species.

Our UVC lamps for sterilization systems include low pressure Amalgam lamps designed with proprietary technology to deliver 30% - 35% improved efficiency over comparable lamps.  Our medium pressure UV lamps deliver powerful germicidal effectiveness with an even smaller footprint.

LightSources in the United States and LightTech in Europe are recognized as the leading high-tech lamp designers offering cutting-edge, innovative solutions. Our skilled engineers provide custom and prototype products designed to your specifications for any UV lamp application. Contact us to speak with an engineer about our UVC germicidal lamps for water sterilization including ballast water treatment systems.

USCG Approved Ballast Water Treatment System

Does your ballast water treatment system meet USCG standards? According to the Ballast Water Treatment Convention, BWTC, ships are not allowed to dump ballast water from one port into another without utilizing a USCG approved ballast water treatment system. Treating the ballast water of ships is considered one of the most important things we can do to protect the sustainability of our world’s oceans, which is why the BWTC is enforced by the International Maritime Organization, IMO, and the Marine Environmental Protection Committee, MEPC. 

The advantages of UV water sterilization are considerable and meet with USCG approval of ballast water treatment methods. 

UV Sterilization of Ballast Water 

UV technology is proven to be highly effective at sterilizing water, air and surfaces, eradicating harmful viruses, bacteria, and aquamarine microorganisms naked to the human eye. UVC radiation is an effective and cost efficient water treatment method to eliminate these dangerous invaders. UVC germicidal lamps developed with effective 254 nanometer (nm) output provide long lasting sterilization effectiveness with little to no maintenance require and no harmful chemicals to store or dispose of. 

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps

The LightSources Group is a leading global supplier of proven UVC germicidal solutions, offering UVC lamps for a wide range of sterilization applications. We are recognized for delivering first to market patented products developed with proprietary technology, to offer maximum effectiveness and energy efficiency. Our engineers understand the technology behind all UV radiation applications, with in-depth experience in developing custom solutions for UVC germicidal applications.

We provide UVC lamps for ballast water treatment systems which provide optimum effectiveness with a small footprint. We offer a wide range of UVC germicidal lamps including:

• Low Pressure (LP) Amalgam lamps

• Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps

• Ozone producing UV germicidal lamps

The LightSources Group is dedicated to delivering UV solutions with maximum effectiveness, long life and energy efficiency. We design, engineer and manufacture UV lamps utilized across a broad range of applications worldwide. Contact us to speak with an engineer and learn more about our water sterilization solutions including USCG approved ballast water treatment systems.

Ballast Water Treatment Convention New Rules

The new requirements for the Ballast Water Treatment Convention (BWTC) took effect last September of 2017, with the main goal of establishing procedures for how ships treat their ballast water. The BWTC is enforced by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), which is a subsidiary group of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Ballast water in ships has been determined to be one of the greatest threats to the sustainability of our world’s oceans.

When ships travel from one port to another and release ballast water from a completely different region, invasive marine organisms often spread to uncontrollable levels wreaking havoc on the fishing industry and even the health and livelihood of residents living in the area. With new rules for the BWTC, all ships are to have a U.S. Coast Guard approved ballast water treatment system.


UV Germicidal Ballast Water Treatment System

Ultraviolet, UV, radiation is proven highly effective at eradicating harmful contaminants such as viruses, bacteria and microorganisms from water, air and surfaces. The LightSources Group offers UVC germicidal lamps in various sizes and shapes to meet even compact design of smaller vessels. UV technology quickly and effectively eliminates the threat of aquatic viruses even naked to the human eye.

With UV ballast water treatment systems, UVC germicidal lamps eliminate the threat of spreading disease with no need for chemicals. Purchasing, storing and disposing of chemicals used to treat water can result in further environmental contamination and requires additional costs, storage space and time to manage. With long lasting UVC germicidal lamps, ballast water is treated effectively with little to no maintenance required.


The LightSources Group Offers UVC Germicidal Lamps

The LightSources Group offers highly effective, proven UVC germicidal lamps for use in air, surface and water treatment systems. We provide custom designed germicidal solutions with proprietary technology. Our Low Pressure Amalgam lamps perform with improved efficiency of 30% to 35% when compared to similar lamps, with the benefit of a small footprint for ease of use in limited spaces. We offer Medium Pressure UV germicidal lamps (MPUV) which also provide highly effective germicidal solutions in an even smaller footprint.


The LightSources Group is the leading expert on UV germicidal lamp solutions with vast resources and in-depth knowledge of UV radiation. We offer germicidal solutions from skilled and experienced engineers, providing prototype solutions and custom designed lamps. Contact us to speak with an engineer about our highly effective, cost-efficient UVC germicidal lamp solutions.

High Performance UV Lamps for Ballast Water Treatment Systems

UVC radiation is a highly effective, proven method of sterilizing and purifying water, air and surfaces.  With the new Ballast Water Treatment Convention, BWTC, that went into full effect last September of 2017, shipping companies are required to maintain an effective system on board their vessel.  Contaminated ballast water is considered to be one of the top 5 threats to the sustainability of the planet’s oceans, as foreign marine organisms are picked up in one port and released in another.

This has wreaked havoc on the fishing industry in many shipping ports and threatened the safety of human life in cases where foreign invaders take over without their natural predators.  Jellyfish have been known to multiply to uncontrollable levels while mussels attach to structures such as dams and bridges causing damage by upsetting the natural ecosystem. UV lamps utilized in ballast water sterilization systems solves this problem with a highly effective and simple to maintain system.

UV Lamps with Powerful Water Sterilization Effects

Ultraviolet technology is proven to sterilize water by instantly killing bacteria, viruses and microorganisms naked to the human eye.  With powerful wavelengths emitted at 254 nanometer, nm, the DNA of these living organisms is immediately altered making them unable to replicate rendering them harmless.

LightSources Offers Patented UV Lamps for Water Treatment

LightSources and our European partner, LightTech, are recognized leaders in the lamp industry with high-tech lighting solutions with innovative products.  We design, engineer and manufacture UVC germicidal lamps found in numerous sterilization processes worldwide.  We offer Low-Pressure Amalgam lamps developed with proprietary technology and Medium Pressure UV, MPUV, lamps which provide the same powerful sterilization in a small footprint.

Our experienced engineers are considered experts on all things related to fluorescent and Ultraviolet technology, delivering first to market products which provide long lasting performance with energy efficiency cost savings.  Due to our high performance lamps, your maintenance costs are reduced with long lasting performance.

LightSources and our valued partner companies are recognized for producing superior lamps and lighting solutions, providing high-tech solutions with innovation products.  Contact us today to learn more about our highly effective and low costs UV lamps for ballast water treatment systems.  

UV Solutions for Ballast Water Treatment Requirements

The Ballast Water Treatment Convention (BWTC) is a worldwide agreement enforced by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC).  The MEPC is a subsidiary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is enforcing new standards globally for the way that ships treat and manage their ballast water.  Effective on September 8, 2017, new regulations went into effect that require all ships traveling in international waters to provide adequate treatment systems for their ballast water.

Ships use water in the ballast of their ships for balance when traveling through the seas. They will pick up water in one port after leaving cargo, and release in another port when picking up cargo.  This transfer of ocean water from one area to another is wreaking havoc on marine life and the ecosystem in which foreign organisms are deposited into a port thousands of miles from their origination.  These invading marine organisms can thrive without their natural predators.  Invading jellyfish have shut down once thriving fishing ports, mussels have attached to structures and dams threating the health and safety of people on the shore.

Improper use and disposal of ballast water has been identified as one of the greatest threats to the sustainability of our planet’s oceans.

UV Treatment of Ballast Water Proven Safe and Effective

Ultraviolet (UV) technology is proven highly effective at sterilizing and purifying water, air and surfaces in a multitude of applications.  UV technology quickly eradicates threatening microorganisms and invasive species in water within seconds of exposure.  UV exposure eliminates these pollutants without the use of chemicals which provides the benefits of low maintenance as opposed to purchasing, storing and disposing of potentially harmful chemicals.

LightSources Provides Long Lasting UV Ballast Water Treatment Systems

LightSources is a leading supplier of UV water and air purification systems, offering patented products developed with proprietary technology resulting from extensive research and development.  Our Low-Pressure Amalgam Lamps provide effective water sterilization and require a small footprint.  Our Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps are equally effective also with a small footprint. 

The LightSources Group is recognized as a leading global supplier of UV germicidal lamps for air, water and surface sterilization solutions.  We are the leading high-tech lamp developer offering first to market, innovative lighting solutions.  Contact us today to learn more about our highly effective and cost-efficient UV germicidal lamps. 

UV Technology Provides Effective Ballast Water Treatment

New requirements under the Ballast Water Treatment Convention took place last September of 2017 with all ships required to have effective treatment systems on board.  When ships are transporting freight through international waters, they must use ballast water to balance their vessel by picking up water in one port when low on freight and discharging in another port when picking up freight.  This use of ballast water has been identified as one of the greatest threats to the world's oceans. 

When ships pick up sea water they also pick up all the ocean life with it which includes microorganisms, viruses and bacteria.  The problem occurs when this water is released into a new, foreign environment which may not be prepared to control the new invading species.  Cases of invading mussels have practically shut down dams and ports when multiplying and attaching themselves to structures, invading jellyfish have all but destroyed fishing industries making ghost towns out of once thriving fishing ports.

Due to these very real threats which jeopardize the sustainability of the planet’s oceans, the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) which is a subsidiary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) began enforcing new standards for ships’ treatment of ballast water which must meet U.S. Coast Guard approval.

UV Germicidal Lamps Provide Effective Ballast Water Treatment

Ultraviolet (UV) light technology is proven to be highly effective at sterilizing water, air and surfaces.  With just seconds of exposure to UV radiation at the optimum wavelength of 254 nanometer (nm), viruses and bacteria are instantly eliminated.  UV germicidal lamps provide effective ballast water treatment methods which are completely safe for human exposure.  UV ballast water treatment provides effective results with U.S. Coast Guard approved methods, are safer than chemical treatment methods as there is no release of chemicals back into the water as with chemical treatment systems.

LightSources Offers UV Lamps for Ballast Water Treatment

LightSources offers UVC germicidal lamps which safely and effective treat ballast water in ships, meeting U.S. Coast Guard approval.  UV treatment of ballast water is safe, effective, and cost-efficient with low maintenance.  Long-lasting UV germicidal lamps from LightSources add value to any germicidal application with high performance and long life. 

LightSources is recognized as a leading high-tech lamp manufacturer with in-depth expertise in UV technology.  Contact us today to learn more about our high performing, long lasting and cost-efficient UV germicidal lamps.  

Make Sure Your Ballast Water Treatment System is USCG Approved

The Ballast Water Treatment Convention is what governs the responsibility of the shipping industry, specifically how ships traveling through international waters treat their ballast water. The Ballast Water Treatment Convention (BWTC) established new standards effective September 2017 to address this issue which is considered one of the greatest threats to our planet’s oceans. The BWTC is enforced by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), a subsidiary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

According to the most recent BWTC, all ships must be equipped with an effective ballast water treatment system that is approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). 

The Threat of Ships’ Ballast Water

When ships sail through international waters they hold ocean water in their ballast for balance depending on the weight of their cargo.  When delivering cargo in a foreign port, they will take on ballast water to compensate for the loss of weight and provide balance when sailing to their next destination.  When picking up cargo in one port, they may release their ballast water to allow for the additional weight. 

By releasing oceanic water into a foreign port, the ships’ ballast water also releases aquatic organisms which invade the foreign port, often with catastrophic consequences. Lifeforms such as mussels, clams, jellyfish, crabs, and many microorganisms including viruses and bacteria which are naked to the human eye invade foreign waters without the safeguard of their natural predators from their home environment. This allows the invading species to multiply, jeopardizing the health and wellness of fish and aquatic lifeforms and even threatens the health of human life inland.

Invading foreign mussels have nearly shut down dams and power plants when allowed to multiply uncontrollably, causing a great risk to the people living in these areas. Jellyfish have been known to destroy fishing industries when invading foreign ports and without their natural predators can be nearly impossible to eradicate. 

There is no question that the terms of the new BWTC are established to protect the environment, the sustainability of our world’s oceans and the people that live near these ports that depend upon the fishing industry for their livelihood.

LightSources Provides Ballast Water Treatment Systems with USCG Approval

The LightSources Group consists of the leading high-tech designers of fluorescent and UV lamps designed to harness powerful UVC radiation which quickly and effectively purifies and sterilizes water, air and surfaces.  Our UVC germicidal lamps are utilized and water purification systems around the globe, providing clean and safe drinking water and improving the environment with healthy, clean and sterilized water. UVC radiation successfully eradicates viruses and bacteria eliminating the risk of foreign invading species taking hold in a new port.

LightSources is dedicated to bringing innovative lamps and lighting solutions to the UVC germicidal industry, with patented products and proprietary technology based on continual research and development. Our Low Pressure (LP) Amalgam lamps provide a compact footprint which is convenient in the tight spaces of the ships ballast area and provides 30 to 35% increased efficiency over comparable lamps. Our Medium Pressure (MPUV) germicidal lamps provide an even more compact footprint which is ideal on smaller ships. We utilize proprietary LongLife™ technology designed for optimum germicidal effectiveness with the most effective wavelength at 254 nanometer (nm). 

The LightSources Group is recognized as a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal solutions, improving air and water quality around the globe.  Contact us today to speak with an experienced lighting engineer regarding our superior UVC germicidal lamps for ballast water treatment systems.

Is Your Ballast Water Treatment System USCG Approved?

With the new Ballast Water Treatment Convention (BWTC) taking effect September of 2017, all ships traveling through international waters must have a ballast water treatment system on board that meets US Coast Guard Approval.  The main goal of the BWTC is to establish standards for treating ships’ ballast water, addressing a growing concern which is one of the greatest threats to the world’s oceans. 

The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) enforces the BWTC, which is a subsidiary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).  When ships drop cargo and pick up ballast water in one port, then sail across the ocean and drop their ballast water in a foreign port, foreign invading aquatic organisms take hold with sometimes catastrophic consequences. These aquatic lifeforms may have had natural predators to keep balance within their natural ecosystem, but multiply uncontrollably in a new environment.

When lifeforms such as jellyfish, clams, crabs, mussels and various viruses and bacteria naked to the human eye are released into a foreign environment, they threaten the health and well-being of the marine life, and also the people that live in these areas. For example, invading mussels have attached themselves to power plants and dams, proving nearly impossible to eradicate and posing a great risk to the people inland.  Jellyfish have taken over fishing ports destroying the industry and livelihood of entire towns.

The new terms of the Ballast Water Treatment Convention address what is recognized as one of the greatest threats to the sustainability of our planet’s oceans.

LightSources Offers Proven Solutions for Ballast Water Treatment Systems

The LightSources Group offers solutions for Ballast Water Treatment Systems, providing UVC germicidal lamps and components proven extremely effective at purifying and sterilizing water and surfaces, eliminating harmful contaminants. UV radiation is successful at eradicating bacteria and viruses naked to the human eye, eliminating the risk of contamination and infestation of harmful microorganisms.

We are dedicated to continual improvement through research and development, bringing innovative lighting solutions to market which offer longer-lasting high-performance with energy-saving features. We offer Low Pressure (LP) Amalgam lamps which operate with 30 to 35% more efficiency than comparable lamps, with a compact footprint convenient in tight spaces.

Our proprietary technology, LongLife™, provides superior germicidal effectiveness at the optimal 254 nanometer (nm) wavelength. The LightSources group also provides a Medium Pressure (MPUV) germicidal lamp with an even smaller footprint ideal on smaller vessels.

The LightSources Group is a leading global lamp designer and manufacturer, providing effective UV sanitation to air and water applications. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable engineer and to learn more about our proven solutions for ballast water treatment systems that meet US Coast Guard approval.

Ballast Water Treatment Methods to Meet New Regulations

The new Ballast Water Treatment Convention (BWTC) went into full effect on September 8, 2017, requiring all ships to have an approved method of ballast water treatment on board their ship.  Ballast water is used to balance the ship as sea water is brought in when cargo is low, or removed when cargo is heavy.  When seawater is picked up in one port is discharged into another port in another country or marine environment, the microorganisms wreak havoc in the new water region, acting as foreign invaders.  Invasive species newly introduced to a region upsets the eco-system and can create insurmountable problems.

All ships including cargo ships, tankers and cruise ships were required to comply by September 8, 2017, under the requirements of the new BWTC.

Ballast Water Treatment Methods with U.S. Coast Guard Approval

Ships must be equipped with an on-board ballast water treatment method to meet these new requirements.  While there are a few different methods for sterilizing water, one stands out as superior to the others.  Some treatment methods may work, but come with added consequences that are not always desirable.

Three main approaches are taken to treat ballast water; mechanical, chemical or physical.  Mechanical methods include filtration and separation; chemical methods use chlorination or biocides, while physical methods include electrical currents, ozone and UV radiation. 

Of these three main methods, UV radiation offers the most benefits with effective treatment, low-cost, low-maintenance and is completely safe.

UV Technology for Ballast Water Treatment

UV technology is used to sterilize and treat water in many applications such as waste water treatment plants.  UV water sterilization is proven effective at removing threatening invasive species, with low costs as there is no requirement to purchase chemicals, low maintenance with the right type of long lasting UV lamps, and is completely safe.

Chemical treatments, on the other hand, require the purchase and storage of these chemicals, and then there is the fact that these chemicals are also released into the ocean which could pollute the water, the very thing the BWTC is aiming to put a stop to. 

LightSources Produces High Performing, Long Lasting UV Lamps for Ballast Water Treatment Systems

LightSources is a leading global manufacturer of UV lamps and lighting solutions, offering our patented Low-Pressure Amalgam Lamp technology for effective sterilization with a small footprint.  We also produce Medium-Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps which are just as effective also with a small footprint.

To learn more about the Ballast Water Treatment Convention regulations, enforced by the IMO (International Maritime Organization), visit Globallast.imo.org, an organization that is dedicated to raising awareness and reducing the harmful effects to our world’s oceans through contaminated ballast water.  

LightSources and our valued partner companies are recognized for producing superior lamps and lighting solutions, providing high-tech solutions with innovation products.  Contact us today to learn more about our highly effective and low costs UV lamps for ballast water treatment systems.