How to Select the Best UV Light Meter For Your Application?

Time:2020/04/02 16:19:00 Browse:3081

The biological effects of ultraviolet rays in different wavelength bands are different. With the continuous research on ultraviolet rays, ultraviolet light sources have been used more and more widely in various fields.

For example, in the medical field, UV-C is mainly used for disinfection and sterilization.  UV-B can be used to treat skin diseases. In some production-oriented enterprises, UV-A is required to process and treat products, such as UV glue curing and ink drying. , photoresist exposure, etc. In the process of using an ultraviolet light source, it is essential to control the uv light irradiation intensity. Too high or too low UV light intensity will bring different effects.

ultraviolet spectrum
ultraviolet spectrum

I. How do you measure UV light intensity?

UV meter is a measuring device used to detect the UV light radiation intensity, also known as uv light measurement equipment. Due to the different needs of different industries for the UV light measurement and the diversity of UV light sources, UV intensity meter manufacturers have developed different types of UV light meters according to types of UV light sources.

uvc led light meter test sterilization box
uvc led light meter test sterilization box

II. Why do we use UV light meter to measure UV intensity?

Although the types of ultraviolet light sources used in different industries are different, UV light sources have a common material property. They will experience a decrease in UV radiation intensity with the increase of the use time. In various industries, the UV radiation intensity of ultraviolet light tubes and the UV illumination time is an indicator that needs to be strictly controlled, so it is necessary to use an UV light meter to detect the UV light intensity.

III. How to Select the Best UV Light Meter For Your Application?

According to different application fields and ultraviolet wavelengths, we provide the following three types of ultraviolet light measurement equipment, as shown in the figure below. Users can choose the best UV intensity meter according to the recommendations below.

Classification Application UV light meter model Wavelength
Medical UV light meter Medical germicidal lamp LS126C 230-280nm
Multiple probe UV light meter Large power germicidal lamp LS125 host+UVC-X0 230-280nm
Multiple probe UV light meter Waterproof germicidal lamp LS125 host+UVCWP-X1 230-280nm
Multiple probe UV light meter LED germicidal lamp LS125 host+UVCLED-X0 200-400nm
Multiple probe UV light meter Power and energy detection
of UVB
LS125 host+UVB-X0 280-315nm
Multiple probe UV light meter High pressure mercury lamp LS125 host+UVA-X0 315-400nm
Multiple probe UV light meter Power and energy detection
of UVA
LS125 host+UVA-X1 315-400nm
Multiple probe UV light meter LED area light sources LS125 host+UVALED-X0 340-420nm
Multiple probe UV light meter LED point light sources LS125 host+UVALED-X1 340-420nm
Multiple probe UV light meter Power and energy detection
of UVA LED
LS125 host+UVALED-X3 340-420nm
Online UV monitor High pressure mercury lamp LS129-UVA 315-400nm
Online UV monitor LED curing lamp LS129-UVALED 340-420nm
Online UV monitor UVC germicidal lamp LS129-UVC 230-280nm
Multi-probe uv meter
Multi-probe uv meter
UVC irradiate DNA
UVC irradiate DNA

1. UV-C light intensity measurement of UV-C germicidal lamp

Inradiation of ultraviolet rays in the UVC band (mainly 230nm-280nm) to microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses will destroy the molecular structure of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid) in the cells of microorganisms, causing DNA strand breaks. The cross-linking of the protein is broken, causing growth cell death and regenerative cell death, achieving the effect of sterilization. 

(1)UV light measurement of medical sterilization low-pressure mercury lamp

The LS126C medical uv light meter mainly measures 253.7nm low-pressure mercury lamps, which is suitable for the UV light radiation intensity detection of germicidal lamps equipped in public places such as hospitals and schools. It is equipped with a 1-meter hook and has a wireless Bluetooth data transmission function.

(2) UV light measurement of high-power sterilization low-pressure mercury lamp

Measure 253.7nm low-pressure mercury lamp with a wavelength of 253.7nm, which is used to detect UV light intensity and energy of high-power germicidal lamps used in pharmaceutical factories, disease control centers,etc.
Model: LS125+UVC-X0

(3) UV light measurement of water treatment sterilization low-pressure mercury lamp

The UV intensity meter can measure the 253.7nm low-pressure mercury lamp. It is used to measure UV light radiation intensity and energy of germicidal lamps used in water treatment and some humid environments. The measurement range is 0-200000μW / cm².
Model: LS125+UVCWP-X1

(4) UV light measurement of UVC LED germicidal lamp

UVCLED-X0 probe is mainly used to measure UV light radiation intensity and energy of UVC LED (also known as deep ultraviolet LED) light source in the range of 220-320nm. The measurement range is 0-200000μW / cm².
Model: LS125 + UVCLED-X0

(5) UV light online measurement of UVC germicidal lamp

LS129-UVC is a UV probe that can monitor the UV radiation intensity of germicidal lamps online. It has standard RS485 communication interface and MODBUS communication protocol. The measurement range is 0-20000μW / cm².

2. UV light measurement of UV-B  ultraviolet lamp

Various 297nm, 308nm, 313nm and other wavelengths of UVB light source radiation intensity and energy measurement, such as plant growth lights, reptile lights, etc. The measurement range is 0-200000μW / cm².
Model: LS125+UVB-X0

3. UV light measurement of UVA ultraviolet lamp

(1) UV light intensity measurement of high-pressure mercury lamp for curing

LS129-UVA is a professional UV digital sensor (UV sensor) for detecting high-pressure mercury lamp light source. It has standard RS485 communication interface and MODBUS communication protocol.The measurement range is 0-2000mW / cm².
The UVA-X0 probe mainly detects the intensity and energy of ultraviolet light sources with a wavelength of 365nm. Detect high-pressure mercury lamp light sources, such as curing machines, exposure machines, dryers, etc. The measurement range is 0-2000mW / cm².
Model: LS126+UVA-X0

(2) UV light intensity measurement of UVA LED area light source for curing

LS129-UVALED is a very compact and intelligent digital sensor (UV sensor), which is specially used to detect curing LED light source. It has a standard RS485 communication interface and MODBUS communication protocol.The measurement range is 0-20000mW / cm².
Model: LS129
The UVALED-X0 probe mainly detects LED area light sources used in curing machines, exposure machines and other equipment. The common used light sources are 365nm, 385nm, 395nm and 405nm. The measurement range is 0-20000mW / cm².
Model: LS125+UVALED-X0

(3) UV light intensity measurement of UV-A LED point light source for curing

The UVALED-X1 probe has a 1mm test aperture and is mainly used to detect LED point light sources used in curing machines, exposure machines and other equipment. Commonly used light sources are 365nm, 385nm, 395nm and 405nm.
Model: LS125 + UVALED-X1

(4) UV light intensity measurement of other UVA band ultraviolet lamps

The UVALED-X3 probe can be used for the irradiation intensity and energy of low-power UVA LED light sources used in various industries, such as nail lamps. The spectral response range of the instrument is 340-420nm, calibrated at the peak wavelength of 365nm. The measurement range of the instrument is 0-200000μW / cm².
Model: LS125 + UVALED-X3
The UVA-X1 probe is suitable for irradiance and energy detection of UVA light sources used in aging boxes, welding arcs,etc. The spectral response range is 315-400nm. The measuring range of the uv light meter is 0-200000μW / cm².
Model: LS125 + UVA-X1

4. UV light intensity measurement in other classic industries

(1) UV light measurement of sunlight and ultraviolet rays in the environment

It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVA-X1 and UVB-X0 probes.

(2) Nondestructive testing

It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVA-X1 probe.

(3) UV light measurement of insect trap light and fly killer light

It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVA-X1 probe.

(4) UV LED light source intensity measurement in air sterilizer

It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVCLED-X0 probe.

(5) UV light intensity measurement in UV aging box

  • UVA-340 light source: LS125 UV light meter is recommended with UVA-X1 probe.

  • UVB-313 light source: LS125 UV light meter is recommended with UVB-X0 probe.

(6) UV light intensity measurement in welding arc

  • Main frequency 365nm detection: It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVA-X1 probe.

  • Main frequency 290nm detection: It is recommended to use LS125 UV light meter with UVB-X0 probe.

  • Main frequency 254nm detection: LS125 UV light meter is recommended with UVC-X0 probe.

IV. How do you use a UV light meter?

1. LS126C medical UV light meter

LS126C is a UV light meter designed for medical ultraviolet germicidal lamps and "WST 367-2012 Regulation of disinfection technique in healthcare settings". It is equipped with a 1-meter hook. Hanging the UV light meter on the hook during measurement can ensure that the measurement meets the technical specifications. In addition, the LS126C UV light meter can use the mobile phone APP to realize the function of airspace monitoring data, avoiding the direct contact between testers and ultraviolet rays.

2. LS125 multi-probe UV light meter

LS125 is a host with multiple UV probes. Users can choose corresponding probes for testing according to different test needs. If there are multiple needs, you can also buy a host with multiple probes, saving cost and easy operation.

V. FAQ of uv light meters

  1. 1. What is UV wavelength range?

    According to different biological effects of ultraviolet rays, ultraviolet rays can be divided into the following four bands according to the wavelength. The current LS125 multi-probe UV light meter is also mainly classified according to the three bands of UVA, UVB and UVC.

    (1) UV-A band

    The wavelength is 315-400nm, also known as long-wave black spot effect ultraviolet rays. UVA has a strong penetrating power and can penetrate most transparent glass and plastic. More than 98% of the long-wave ultraviolet rays contained in sunlight can penetrate the ozone layer and clouds to reach the earth's surface.

    (2) UV-B band

    The wavelength is 280 ~ 315nm, also called medium wave erythema effect ultraviolet. Its shorter wavelength will be absorbed by transparent glass. Most of the medium-wave ultraviolet rays contained in sunlight are absorbed by the ozone layer and only less than 2% can reach the surface of the earth. It will be particularly strong in summer and afternoon.

    (3) UV-C band

    The wavelength is 200-280nm, also known as short-wave sterilization ultraviolet. It has the weakest penetrating power and cannot penetrate most transparent glass and plastic. The short-wave ultraviolet rays contained in sunlight are almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer.

    (4) UV-D band

    Vacuum ultraviolet light, with a wavelength of 100 ~ 200 nanometers, has very weak penetrating ability and it can oxidize oxygen in the air to ozone.

  2. 2. UV light intensity measurement units conversion

    UV intensity units are mainly μW / cm², mW / cm², W / cm² and W / m².

    Conversion of UV intensity unit: 1W / cm² = 1 × 10 ^ 3 mW / cm² = 1 × 10 ^ 4 W / m² = 1 × 10 ^ 6 μW / cm²

    The multi-probe UV light meter LS125 independently developed by Linshang Technology provides multiple units to choose from. Users can choose the corresponding unit according to their own measurement needs.

  3. 3. UV sterilization radiation intensity standard

    During sterilization, if the intensity of UV radiation is high enough, the inactivated virus bacteria will not be revived. But if the radiation intensity is too low, the virus bacteria inactivated by UV radiation can repair the damaged structure by light. Therefore, an UV light meter is needed to ensure that the irradiation intensity of the ultraviolet disinfection lamp is higher than the standard value.

    "WST 367-2012 Regulation of disinfection technique in healthcare settings" stipulates that after turning on the UV germicidal lamp for 5 minutes, the probe of the UV light meter with a measuring wavelength of 253.7nm needs to be placed at a vertical distance of 1m directly below the tested UV lamp (special UV lamp needs to be placed at the recommended distance for measurement. The data shown after the UV light meter is stable is the irradiance value of the UV lamp).

    The standard of ordinary 30W straight tube type ultraviolet lamp is as follows: the irradiation intensity of the new lamp should meet the requirements of GB 19258; the use of ultraviolet lamp irradiation intensity ≥70μW / cm² is qualified; the irradiation intensity of 30W high intensity ultraviolet lamp ≥ 180μW / cm² is qualified.

  4. 4. How long does it take to sterilize with UV light?

    The length of UV sterilization needs to be treated differently depending on the type of bacteria or virus that needs to be killed. Ultraviolet radiation dose = ultraviolet radiation intensity × light duration. Only when a certain amount of UV radiation is reached can certain bacteria or viruses be killed.

    Take the influenza virus as an example. To reach 99% inactivated influenza virus, a UV irradiation dose of 6600 µWs / c㎡ is required (the true UV irradiation dose unit is mJ / c㎡. In order to calculate the duration of the light, the unit is converted into µWs / c㎡). If a 30W straight tube medical sterilization lamp with an irradiation intensity of 90µW / c㎡ is used for sterilization, the duration of irradiation is 6600 ÷ 90≈73s, which is 1 minute and 13 seconds.

  5. 5. How does UV light kill water? How does UV light kill bacteria in water?

    Taking over-flow sterilization equipment as an example, the principle of sterilization of ultraviolet germicidal lamps in water is such that the water flows through the periphery of a quartz tube that can penetrate ultraviolet rays, and the 254nm ultraviolet rays generated by ultraviolet lamps sterilize and sterilize water. Due to the rapid flow of water, the time it takes for the water to flow through the quartz jacket is no more than 1 second, so only high-intensity and high-power UV lamps can achieve the conventional sterilization effect, and the power of the UV lamps needs to be measured regularly with an UV light meter. 

  6. 6. UV meter calibration

    If the UV light meters are used too frequently or after a certain period of time, a certain degree of aging will occur. For example, the internal filter may be mildewed due to the humid storage environment. In addition, many factors may affect the accuracy of ultraviolet radiation intensity measurements. Therefore, it is recommended to periodically calibrate the UV light meter. The recommended calibration cycle is one year. Users can adjust the calibration cycle according to their own frequency of use and the accuracy of the instrument.

    Institutions and hospitals can send UV light meters to regular third-party metrology agencies if they need to be calibrated before using medical UV light meters. If it is only necessary to ensure the accuracy of the measurement data, we recommend that custometers send the uv light meter back to the manufacturer for calibration. The UV light meter manufacturer can provide a recalibration report, but cannot provide an authoritative certification report.

  7. 7. What is the UV light meter measurement principle?

    The UV light meter can measure the power (intensity) or energy value of the received UV. Ultraviolet is an electromagnetic radiation that has a shorter wavelength than visible light, but a longer wavelength than X-rays. The ultraviolet sensor can convert one energy signal received into another energy signal and the output signal is an electrical signal; The built-in analog-to-digital conversion chip (ADC) can convert the weak current signal into a digital signal. The digital signal collected by single-chip microcomputer will be adjusted and recorded.The obtained power value will be used to calculate the UV energy value or generate other graphics and measurement reports.

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