Germicidal Lamps: What You Need to Know

If you work in a medical or wastewater treatment facility, you are likely familiar with germicidal, or UV, lamps. For those who are not familiar with these specialty bulbs, let’s take a look at how they work and some of their common uses.

Germicidal lamps produce short-wavelength ultraviolet, or UVC, light These short-wave UV light rays are between 100nm and 280nm on the spectrum of visible light. This type of light leads to the eradication of harmful bacteria and viruses by disrupting its DNA structure. They are ideal for use where disinfection is the primary goal. Germicidal lamps are also used for water and air purification and the creation of ozone. There are two types germicidal lamps commonly used: low pressure and high pressure.

Low pressure lamps are most similar to fluorescent lamps, with the exception of two features. Low pressure germicidal bulbs contain no fluorescent phosphor and are made from fused quartz glass, instead of borosilicate glass like their fluorescent counterpart. They also produce a very small amount of visible light.

High pressure lamps are most similar to HID, or high intensity discharge, lamps. These lamps are most commonly used in industrial water treatment facilities because they produce an intense radiation. High pressure germicidal lamps emit a bright bluish white light.

*As with any fluorescent or HID lamp, germicidal lamps require the use of an external ballast to regulate the flow of current.

COMMON USES:

Sterilize workspaces and instruments and medical facilities and laboratories
Kill microorganisms during wastewater treatment
Create ozone for sanitizing systems in hot tubs, aquariums, etc.
Aid geologists in identification of mineral samples by provoking fluorescence
Purify air and water

COMMON PLACES OF USE:

Medical Facilities
Science Labs
Water Treatment Facilities
Food Processing Facilities
Commercial Kitchens
Pools, Spas and Aquariums
Farms

Germicidal lamps require proper safety precautions pertaining to eye and skin protection. Exposure to these lamps without the right protective gear can cause sunburn, inflammation to the cornea, or damage to the retina. High exposure over time can lead to skin cancer and temporary, or even permanent, vision impairment. Since germicidal lamps provide an important function, they must be cleaned often and replaced each year to ensure high performance.

Germicidal lamps are a technical product that require specific handling and can cause serious issues if used improperly. If you have any doubt, please give our Customer Service team a call at 800-609-5790 or contact us here.

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