Did You Know? UV?

COOLING:

To most, cooling of the lamp is usually perceived to be one of the least important factors in the function of the UV system, but in fact it is one of the most important. Each UV system was intended to function in a certain temperature range and when the temperature falls out of this range the lamps will degrade at a much faster rate. On many systems the blower has a baffle to regulate airflow to the UV lamp, hence regulating temperature. When this baffle is closed too much the lamp will tend to overheat, which is usually seen when the lamps become distorted in shape and the end fittings and wire possibly show signs of extreme heat. On the other hand when the baffle is open too much the lamp may be overcooled, this will show when the ends of the lamp turn dark black. Both of these conditions are detrimental to the life of the lamp.

REFLECTORS:

The function of the reflector is to focus the majority of lamp energy to a focal point on the product. It is very important to install the reflectors properly since they are responsible for about 70 percent of the light that is used to cure the product. Well cared for reflectors will make lamps appear to last much longer since the system will be much more efficient when most of the light emitted from the lamp is being diverted on to the product. Dirty or deformed reflectors will not allow for the light to be reflected back to the product the way it was intended. When this is the case it will seem that the lamp is not curing the product as well as it should.

A high quality reflector will insure UV lamps reach optimal lifespan and emit the greatest amount of UV intensity and curing energy over a longer period of time. This in turn will make it appear to extend lamp life.

CAPACITORS:

Each UV system has capacitors, which help regulate power to the lamps. Over a period of time these capacitors degrade or blow-out. It is a good idea to periodically measure the values of the capacitors with a capacitance meter to prevent future problems and to keep to UV system operating properly.

LAMP VOLTAGE:

On many UV systems it is possible to monitor the operation of a UV lamp by measuring voltage across the lamp. By using a known optimal voltage the lamp can be checked at anytime to see if it is operating at the desired parameters. This can be useful useful when trying to determine the correct amount of cooling.