UV Lamp Supplier for UV Curing Systems

UV curing systems are used worldwide in a number of commercial and industrial applications.  UV curing lamps are proven to be highly effective at improving the adhesion of inks, varnishes and coatings as well as strengthening polymer products. Ultraviolet radiation alters the molecular structure of various polyurethane coatings and polymers such as plastics, epoxies and silicone glue.

Ultraviolet radiation is highly effective, safe and offers the quickest cure time available compared to other methods such as heat and air drying. UV lamps cure polymers and coatings within seconds of exposure for extremely quick cycle times which improves productivity and profitability.

Benefits of UV Curing over Other Methods

UV curing offers many benefits over other methods of drying and curing polymers. With UV curing, the process is instantaneous which eliminates the potential for contamination with dust and airborne particles which can occur with air drying methods. UV curing also eliminates the possibility of evaporation which can leave an uneven surface and some processes. Ultraviolet curing processes drastically improve the quality of products with consistent and reliable results.

UV curing is much safer than using chemicals to cure polymers as there is no need to purchase, store or dispose of toxic chemicals. This provides a safer environment for employees and eliminates potential environmental contamination.  UV curing provides many benefits to commercial and industrial applications which include:

• Quickest processing time for improved productivity
• Safe handling and processes with no harmful by products
• Improved quality with consistent and reliable results
• Little to no maintenance required
• Cost savings over other curing methods

UV curing offers these benefits and many more over other curing methods. It is important to utilize the right type of UV lamps which emit the proper wavelength to maximize effectiveness and benefits.

LightSources Group Offers High Quality UV Curing Lamps

The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide as a leading global supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions. Our skilled engineers partner with you to choose the best lamps for your process and offer custom design solutions to meet your application needs.  Our UV lamps are found in a multitude of applications including UVC germicidal processes such as UV air treatment and UV water sterilization systems.

The LightSources Group includes the most advanced lighting engineers available in the industry. We offer high-tech, custom design solutions including custom phosphor blends and prototype lamp products. Contact us to learn more about our UV curing lamp products and solutions.

High Performance Lamps for UVC Air Purification Systems

UVC germicidal lamps are used in air purification systems and many residential, industrial and commercial environments. It is important for commercial property owners to provide sterile and clean air to the public and employees. Commercial properties such as schools, nursing homes and hospitals can offer healthy air to schoolchildren and hospital residents to prevent widespread infection of airborne illnesses.

UVC air purification systems are becoming more popular in residences as people are becoming aware of the many advantages provided by sterilized air. UVC ozone lamps effectively eliminate odors and volatile organic compounds from the air.  UV germicidal lamps are used in HVAC systems to provide clean and sterile air in hassle-free, maintenance free air treatment systems.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is in the electromagnetic spectrum of light which is invisible to the human eye.  UV light is emitted in wavelengths measured in nanometers (nm), with UV light in the wavelength of 254 nm proven to be highly effective at killing viruses and bacteria.  UV radiation in this wavelength is also proven to eliminate harmful microorganisms, airborne pathogens, mold, mildew and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

LightSources Offers UVC Air Purification Lamps

LightSources in the United States and LightTech in Europe offer cutting-edge, high performance UVC germicidal lamps used in sterilization and purification systems worldwide.  We offer UVC germicidal lamps used in air purification, water and surface sterilization applications with long lasting, proven effectiveness.

The LightSources Group offers a vast product line of UVC germicidal lamps for any application.  We design, engineer and manufacture low-pressure and medium pressure Mercury discharge germicidal lamps. We use high-quality quartz and soda lime glass with specialized phosphor blends to allow the optimum flow of UVC radiation.

Our vast resources include a modern glass factory in Europe and several valued partner companies including LCD Lighting, Voltarc and Cerlux the share in our commitment to quality and continual improvement.

The LightSources Group consists of the leading high-tech lamp designers and engineers available today offering cutting-edge, innovative UV lamp products. We provide high performance and cost-efficient germicidal lamps with OEM oriented solutions.  Contact us today to learn more about our UVC germicidal lamps proven in and water and air purification systems.

Instantly Cure Polymers with UV Curing Technology

UV curing systems are used in a multitude of applications enhancing the processes of OEMs and manufactures worldwide. UV technology provides several advantages over other treatment methods to cure polymers such as air drying or chemical use.  UV radiation causes an instant photochemical reaction to cure a variety of polymers such as epoxies, polyurethane, silicone glue and various outer coatings and varnishes. 

This photochemical reaction instantly dries and hardens the polymer which provides many advantages such as improved strength resulting in a higher quality product, and quicker cycle times in manufacturing applications. 

Benefits of UV Curing

When the polymer is exposed to the UV wavelengths, the reaction is instant which creates a smooth and glossy finish, depending on the polymer.  This instant reaction creates an improved product as the UV technology instantly dries the polymer eliminating an uneven surface due to evaporation, which is a problem with air drying products.  Instant drying also alleviates the chance of contamination from dust and debris.

UV technology improves the product quality, along with profitability by improving cycle times. When parts and be cured instantly under the proper type of UV light, they can be treated during automatic processes such as in movement on a conveyor or in an automated UV curing system. This quick reaction from UV lamps greatly improves efficiencies as no manual labor is required to treat products. 

UV radiation is also safe for employees, eliminating the need for purchasing, storing or disposing of chemicals.  These advantages result in a consistently high quality, efficient process which adds to productive and profitable process, in addition to providing a safe work environment for employees.

LightSources Offers UV Lamps for UV Curing Systems

LightSources provides a wide selection of UV lamps used in UV curing systems for a multitude of processes.  LightSources and our valued European partner, LightTech, offer the leading high-tech lamp solutions available today with vast global resources and a commitment to developing high quality lamp products. We offer skilled lighting and design engineers with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of UV and fluorescent lamp technology.

LightSources and LightTech provide UV lamp and lighting solutions including UVC germicidal lamps used around the world in a wide range of applications.  We provide patented products developed in our modern glass factory, offering vast resources for quality product and timely delivery.  Contact us today to learn more about our UV lamp and lighting solutions.

Improve Adhesion with UV Curing

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes a photochemical reaction to occur when exposed to certain polymers such as epoxies, polyurethane and silicone glue, which instantly dries and cures the polymer. This photochemical reaction occurs quickly, in a matter of seconds upon exposure to the specialty UV lamps. 

Benefits of UV Curing

There are many benefits provided with UV curing when compared to other methods such as air drying and application of chemical solutions. UV curing offers the fastest cure time over these other methods, improving cycle times and product throughput.  Companies that utilize UV curing in their process experience an increase in productivity and profitability.   

UV radiation also improves the quality of products with a stronger, more durable bond. With instant curing, there is no time for evaporation which occurs with air drying leaving an uneven and often contaminated surface. UV lamps drastically improve product quality while increasing productivity. 

With UV lamps for curing, there is no need to purchase and store harmful chemicals, offering a safer work environment for employees.  UV curing lamps provide many cost-saving benefits with very low maintenance.   

LightSources Offers UV Curing Lamps with High-Performance at a Low Cost

The LightSources Group is a leading global supplier of specialty fluorescent and UV lamps used in a multitude of applications around the globe. Our vast resources include a sprawling modern glass factory in Europe where we conduct continual research and development to provide innovative lighting solutions. We offer patented products developed with proprietary technology from our highly skilled lighting engineers, focused on providing energy savings coupled with long-lasting high performance.

With our vast resources we are able to provide high-performing lamps, with quick turnaround at the lowest available cost.  We are a valuable addition to any supply chain, supporting industrial processes such as graphic design, screen printing, and improving product quality of critical components utilized in the automotive and aerospace industries. 

The LightSources Group consists of the industry’s most advanced lighting engineers, recognized as leaders among high-tech lamp designers and manufacturers.  We provide a wide range of solutions utilizing UV technology, including UV lamps for curing and germicidal applications. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable engineer and to learn more about our effective and cost-efficient UV lamps for curing. 

UV Curing Explained – What You Need to Know

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a powerful form of electromagnetic radiation that has been used for decades to cause a reaction to various materials by altering their chemical properties.  UV radiation is not visible to the human eye, with a wavelength in the range of 10 to 400 nm (nanometer) emitting either UVA, UVB, or UVC radiation. 

UVA – UVB – UVC Radiation Explained

UVA and UVB radiation is utilized to create a photochemical reaction that instantly dries inks, varnishes, coatings or adhesives and is beneficial in various UV printing or UV drying processes.  UVA light is emitted between 315 and 400nm, with UVB in the range of 280 to 315nm.   The powerful effect that UV radiation causes to materials is fast and efficient, with a hardening or drying process occurring in seconds.  Treating multiple parts in seconds is very cost effective for manufacturers with faster cycle times and increased capacity. 

OEM’s around the globe are realizing the benefits of UV curing lamps for enhancing several industries including printing, wood treatment for flooring products, and purification of air and water in sterilization and purification systems. 

UVC wavelength is in the range of 200 to 280 nm and is highly effective in sterilization applications used to sanitize either air or water.  UVC germicidal lamps are used in various medical and purification systems, providing clean air in hospitals and sanitary medical equipment.  The LightSources group consists of the leading experts in research and design, engineering and manufacturing the highest performing UV curing lamps in the industry. 

High Performing and Cost-Efficient UV Curing Lamps

LightSources and European partner, LightTech, are leading manufacturers of all types of UV curing lamps providing proven solutions to OEMs worldwide.  We offer a wide selection of standard UV lamps and components, or will create a custom lighting solution specific to your application.   Our vast resources include a modern glassmaking facility in Europe where we utilize proprietary and patented technology to provide the best UV Curing lamps in the industry at a reasonable cost to manufacturers.  

We have a wide selection of high pressure UV (HPUV) lamps, medium pressure (MPUV), medium pressure output (MPHO) lamps or our low pressure amalgam lamps with patented technology for long lasting performance even through end of useful life.   The LightSources group will guide you to the most cost efficient and effective UV curing lamps for your system, providing a quick return on your investment.  

LightSources in the United States and LightTech in Europe are leading experts in all varieties of UV lamps for curing applications.  Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable lighting experts for guidance on the most appropriate lamps for your process. 

UV Drying Lamps are Fast and Cost Effective

OEM’s around the globe are harnessing the power of UV drying lamps, and are realizing an improvement in process with quality and cycle time, in addition to valuable cost savings with improved efficiency.  There are many industries using UV drying lamps in various industrial production processes worldwide.  

UV drying lamps are effective with a very quick drying time when compared to heat drying systems, for curing polymers, inks, varnishes and coatings.  Because UV lamps have such a quick drying time, they produce a more consistent hardened finish with much less shrinkage over heat systems. 

This results in a higher level of quality for your products, providing countless benefits with satisfied customers, improved sales and increased customers. 

In addition to an improved quality standard, UV drying lamps also provide a significant cost savings over heat or chemical drying methods.  The quick cycle time means more efficient production and higher capacity levels.   Less maintenance, less replacement costs, and a faster cycle time all equate to higher profits for you. 

UV Drying Lamps Aid Automotive Industry

Many industrial processes are realizing the benefits of harnessing UV power for quick and effective curing of their parts.  The automotive industry sees a quick return on investment when using UV drying lamps to quickly dry outer coatings of polymers or inks, varnishes, and lacquers on either exterior or interior parts.  

Faster Cycle Times

UV curing is a huge timesaver, as several parts can be cured at once, speeding up assembly lines.  With a quick drying time of seconds, they can be touched, handled and packaged in a faster amount of time. Faster cycle times equal more profitable production runs. 

Strengthened Parts

This hardened surface not only dries quickly, it is also stronger and more resistant to breaking, warping or chipping.   This is important for parts in critical applications such as braking or air-bag systems. 

LightSources and its affiliated companies – LCD Lighting, Voltarc, LightTech, and Cerlux represent the leading high-tech designers and manufacturers in the lamp industry today. Our standard lamps and components as well as customized products offer high-quality solutions to meet our partner’s unique needs.  We invite you to contact us to learn more about our wide selection of lamps.

Energy-efficient Low Pressure Curing Lamps

Several years ago the only UV lamps available to industries to cure free radical UV inks were medium or high pressure UVA (365nm) lamps.  Today however, new advancements have made it possible to use low pressure UVC (254nm) curing lamps to cure “cationic” based UV inks, coatings, lacquers, and resins.  These low pressure UVC (254nm) curing systems provide the benefit of producing no hazardous byproducts as well as offering lower operating costs than either free radical UVA (365nm) curing or heat-based curing systems.

As they operate on significantly less power than medium or high pressure lamps, low pressure lamps are ideal for applications that require dimming at 40%, 60% or 80% of full power.  In addition while both low pressure mercury lamps and amalgam lamps produce UVC (254nm), there is an increasing trend toward using amalgam lamps due to their speed and efficiency in drying cationic based UV inks, coatings and resins.  For example an amalgam lamp can produce an output of 200 to 1000 watts, of which one-third is usable UVC (254nm) energy. Another reason for the growing popularity among industries is that amalgam lamps offer the ability to downsize a system while still maintaining maximum speed and efficiency for UV curing.

Furthermore, the advantages to energy-efficient UV curing are clear when compared to traditional heat curing systems.  UV curing systems are not only easier to maintain, but since they do not produce noxious fumes, do not require expensive exhaust systems. Moreover since the process is instantaneous, it provides economic benefits such as speeding up production times as well as improving consistency and quality of the finished product.

LightSources and LightTech are happy to answer any questions you have regarding an UV system for your application needs.  Contact us for more information on low pressure and amalgam curing lamps. 

LightSources and our affiliated companies represent the leading high-tech designers and manufacturers in the lamp industry today.  Our team consists of the most highly skilled professionals that specialize in a range of innovative solutions.  Please contact us to learn more about our broad range of standard and custom lighting solutions.

How to Care for Your MPUV Lamps

LightSources and LightTech are the experts in designing, engineering and manufacturing high-quality medium pressure ultraviolet lamps (MPUV) so we know an awful lot about how to care for them.  We wish to share a few important tips on how to extend the life of your lamps.  If you have other questions we have not addressed here or simply need more information, check the educational section on our website. 

One of our first tips is to not start your lamps at too low of a power.  The reason for this is when a MPUV lamp is first started it is cold and the little power it has is needed to heat the mercury so it transforms from a liquid to a gas.  The cooling element of the lamp is designed for the lamp to be running at full power.  If the power is initially too low at the start, it can prevent the mercury from vaporizing and keep the lamp from ever getting hot.  This low power arc is called “caught in a glow mode.”  With the lamp in this overly cooled mode, it is unable to properly start and can burn itself out. 

Another common problem is too much cooling for lamps operating in idle mode.  This occurs when a lamp is not being used and has had the power turned way down in an effort to conserve energy.  The cooling can cause the mercury to condense, which in turn drops the lamp’s voltage and creates an environment for the “caught in the glow mode.”  The lesson here is if you need to put your equipment into an idle mode, you must ensure there is enough power to prevent over-cooling the lamp. 

A simple summation of our tips include: avoiding excessive cold starts, starting lamps at high power, and avoiding excessive lamp starts.  In addition be sure to clean your lamps and equipment, especially the ventilating system as well as check and replace reflectors regularly.  Lastly make sure lamp connections are clean and tight.  See our website for more troubleshooting tips.    

LightSources and its affiliated companies – LCD Lighting, Voltarc, LightTech, and Cerlux represent the leading high-tech designers and manufacturers in the lamp industry today. Our standard lamps and components as well as customized products offer high-quality solutions to meet our partner’s unique needs.  Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of lamps.

Applications that Benefit from our Shatter ProTech Technology

One of LightSources and LightTech’s proprietary solutions includes producing lamps with our Shatter ProTech technology.  Lamps containing this exclusive technology are ideal for a variety of applications and provide a cost-effective solution for glass and mercury containment while still optimizing light output.  In fact the UVC transmission loss through the ProTech sleeve is only 5% more than from a quartz sleeve.  Additionally it can be used to cover a range of geometric shapes such as linear, circular, U-shaped, and compact PL’s along with other options. 

The different applications that benefit from our Shatter ProTech technology include municipal drinking water treatment, air purification, chemical manufacturing, the grocery industry, freshwater and marine fish farming and silicon chip manufacturing among others.  Many of these industries share the need for not only protecting their workers and the environment from hazardous glass and mercury contamination but also the need to protect against broken splinters of glass getting into the food or beverages they produce.   

Another benefit to the Shatter ProTech technology is it helps industries to comply with their local codes and FDA regulations.  Additionally by eliminating the possibility of lamp breakage and the ensuing contamination, it also prevents production line stoppages that must occur until the site is properly clean up. 

We encourage you to take a look at our full selection of high-quality UVC germicidal lamps that include low pressure, medium pressure and high pressure solutions.  All of our lamps are energy-efficient and long lasting, and have a compact design to make retrofitting easy.

LightSources and our affiliated companies represent the leading high-tech designers and manufacturers in the lamp industry today.  Our products are used world-wide in a multitude of applications and industries such as our avionic display backlighting that is part of the National Defense and US Space Program.   Please contact us to learn more about our standard and custom lighting solutions.