UV Comparison - UV Design

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UV Sterilizer Design
The most efficient UV sterilizer design is one that utilizes the UV lamp's UV-C output to its maximum potential.

The Most Critical UV Lamp Performance Factors are:

1. Input Watt to UV-C Output Watt Conversion – The UV-C light wavelength (250 – 280 nanometers) is most suited for germicidal applications. Low-pressure UV lamps convert approximately 38% of their Input Watts into UV-C Output Watts while medium-pressure UV lamps convert about 8%.

Example - 25 Watt UV Lamp
Input Watts – 25
UV-C Output Watts – 8

2. UV Lamp Length – The length of the UV lamp is a critical factor when establishing the dimensions of the UV exposure chamber. The lamp length should always be positioned between the inlet / outlet ports.

3. UV Lamp Useful Lamp Life – The useful lamp life time frame, established by the lamp manufacturer, represents continuous operation of the lamp from new to 60% efficient.

Critical UV Design Characteristics:

1. UV Exposure Chamber Dimensions – The area of a UV exposure chamber is determined by the type of lamp used, arc length and UV-C output.

2. Quartz Sleeve – During operation, UV lamps are very temperature sensitive; a ten degree variation can change the UV-C output dramatically. Quartz sleeves help thermally protect the lamp during operation.

3. Power Supply – The power supply ultimately determines how the lamp operates. If mismatched the lamp is over worked, which could increase its UV-C output but ultimately decreases the overall useful life span .

Additional – Other UV sterilizer styles include:

Pressurized Multiple Lamp Vessel	Open-Channel	Baffle

Regardless of the style, the UV lamps must be positioned in an array that best utilizes their UV-C output and arc length.