UV Lamps - F.A.Q.

We have a lamp but we don't know what type, can Photo Electronics­supply it?

Photo Electronics­supplies­uv curing lamps for all makes of dryer/curing systems. Our Suppliers can develop manufacturing specifications from an original operating sample and technical data that may be available.­ In the first instance, simply fill in the Lamp Identification Sheet and email or fax it to us for identification.

We have a lamp that seems to be the same size as another. Will it work in another machine?

It depends. The length of a lamp is usually a result of the size of the media that is being printed or coated. However, each lamp is designed for the drying/curing system into which it is installed. Therefore, one lamp may not work for another because its electrical characteristics and termination features may differ from another lamp. Review your requirements with Photo Electronics­and we will help you determine the ability of a lamp to work in different machines.

Can Photo Electronics­supply­a higher power lamp than we already have and upgrade?

Power supplies and UV lamps are usually designed and matched to provide optimum performance. The lamp is cooled in a specially designed lamp head, which should provide an appropriate cooled environment for reliable lamp operation. Usually, upgrading would require both the lamp and power supply to be replaced, and additional modifications to the lamp head to provide an appropriate environment. Please contact our Technical Department for advice.

Can we have a standard lamp with additive to enhance output?

Simply adding a metal halide to a lamp will not enhance output. The electrical system for this enhanced lamp must be matched to the lamp so that the proper amount of striking and operating voltage are available to introduce the halide into the plasma stream.

What guarantee do I get with the lamp?

Lamps are manufactured to the highest standards and will provide a useful UV life of 1000 hours under normal conditions, unless otherwise stated. In the unlikely event of failure, and depending upon the cause of failure, pro-rata credit may be given in relation to the shortfall from the guaranteed period at the time of failure.

What is the lump of solder in my lamp?

What appears to be a lump of solder is actually a precise dose of mercury. In a mercury-vapour curing lamp, mercury is energized into plasma where it generates specific wavelengths of ultraviolet energy, which are used to initiate the polymerization of UV curable inks and coatings.

What is the lump of glass on the lamp tube?

What appears to be a lump of glass is actually a closed seal, commonly referred to as the "Pip" or "Fill Tip”.­ This is the result of our lamp manufacturing process using technology designed to produce a more reliable and consistent performance.

What are the recommended running temperatures for a UV curing lamp?

The area between the tips of the electrodes, within the main lamp body, should be maintained at an operating temperature of 600 - 800 degrees C. The area consisting of the metal foil and end fitting should be maintained at a temperature of less than 250 degrees C. If the lamp has an electrical lead-out wire, the wire must be maintained at a temperature of less than 200 degrees C.

How do I properly dispose of a lamp since it contains mercury?

UV lamps must be disposed of in accordance with environmental legislation.­ Please contact the Supplier for advice.

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