In all UV light applications, UV radiation is generated. But have you ever wondered what UV radiation is and where it is applied? Sun rays reach the Earth in different electromagnetic wavelengths. UV radiation, or ultraviolet radiation, is a part of this radiation that is invisible to the human eye. Surprisingly, however, some animals like cats, dogs, and hedgehogs can perceive UV radiation.
In addition to UV radiation, infrared rays (IR radiation) and visible light also reach us. While infrared light is perceived as heat, the rest of the radiation remains within the visible light spectrum for us.
The classification of UV radiation
UV radiation is divided into three main areas based on its wavelength:
- UVA radiation: 400 to 315 nanometers
- UVB radiation: 315 to 280 nanometers
- UVC radiation: 280 to 100 nanometers
Examples of UV light applications in industry
When an industrial UV lamp generates artificial UV radiation, these have the same properties as natural UV radiation and are used in many industrial applications. Especially UVA rays play a significant role as they can optimize various work processes and thus increase profitability. For example, coated surfaces can cure within seconds, and bonded materials cure faster. Also, in material testing, such as detecting cracks in glass, UVA radiation is very useful. UV-cured surfaces are also abrasion- and scratch-resistant.
UVB and UVC rays also have versatile uses. They are used for sterilizing air, water, and surfaces. Especially in the current pandemic situation, UV radiation is an important tool for containing the coronavirus. Further applications are found in beauty and skincare.
Safety and UV radiation
Both artificial and natural UV radiation affect our skin and eyes. The rays penetrate the skin and eyes and can be absorbed by the cells, leading to changes in the genetic material (DNA). Normally, the cells repair this damage. However, with frequent and prolonged UV exposure, the repair systems can become overloaded, leading to permanent genetic changes and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Industrial UV lamps with LED technology are the future
In many industrial areas, a LED UV light has become indispensable and is increasingly replacing a conventional radiation source. The advantages of UV-LEDs are obvious: they offer a long lifetime, high efficiency, and a compact design. These lights are available in different wavelengths of the UVA range and can be individually adapted to different applications thanks to their sleek, space-saving design.
LED UV lights thus offer a modern, efficient, and versatile solution for numerous industrial applications, from material testing to sterilization to surface treatment. They are an essential part of modern production processes and contribute to optimization and efficiency improvement.