UV hand-held lamps for UVA and UVC: detecting luminescence reliably
The Opsytec handheld UV lamps are mains-operated UV sources for the UVA and UVC range, used to detect luminescent and fluorescent substances – for example in document inspection, leak detection, materials testing and trace detection. They emit at 254 nm and/or 365 nm and reach about 500 µW/cm² at a distance of 10 cm. Two lamps per unit and a filter that blocks visible light make even weak luminescence visible that would be missed under room light. Three versions are available: UVA, UVC and a switchable UVA/UVC lamp.
The UVA and UVC lamps are equipped with two UV lamps to obtain a very high intensity of irradiation on the sample. The UVA/UVC handheld lamp allows the simultaneous or separate application of UVA and UVC radiation with the same device.
All handheld UV lamps are mains operated and have VIS filters, which effectively filter the visible light from the tubes. Thus, even weak luminescence in the sample can be optimally detected.
We recommend our additional stand to create a table lamp and have both hands free for testing.
Highlights of UV hand-held lamps
- High irradiance of ~ 500 µW/cm² in a distance of 10 cm
- Filters for visible light from the tubes
- Weak luminescence can be detected
- Long lifetime
- Optional: Switchable UVA and UVC emission
Applications
- Verification of documents and bank notes
- Irradiation of biological, pharmaceutical, and medical samples
- Materials testing, leak detection
- Detection of impurities
- Fluorescence excitation
- Trace detection
Technical data filtered UV hand-held lamps
| Wavelength | 254 nm and/or 365 nm |
| Max. irradiance | 500 µW/cm² at a distance of 10 cm |
| Irradiated areas | 2, each 148 × 23 mm |
| VIS filters | 2 |
| Lamp power | 2 × 6 W |
| Dimensions | 280 × 86 × 65 mm |
| Weight | ~ 1400 g |
| Mains | 230 VAC / 50 Hz |
| Classification | risk group 3 according to DIN EN 62471:2009-03 |
| Operating temperature | 5 to 40 °C |
| Storage temperature | -10 to 60 °C |
| Humidity | below 80 %, non-condensing |
Spectra of the UV hand-held lamps
The UV hand-held lamps work with fluorescent tubes, not with LEDs. The figure compares both tubes in absolute values: the UVC tube puts its output on the mercury line at 254 nm, while the UVA tube spreads it over a broader band around 365 nm and therefore reaches a lower spectral irradiance. That the two do not overlap is the reason for the third, switchable version.
Spectra and replacing the tubes
The UVC tube emits the mercury line at 253.7 nm, the UVA tube a band around 365 nm; between them lies the weak line at 313 nm. The blocking filter holds back the visible light of the tubes, so that even weak luminescence stays visible.
The spectrum of the UVC tube is available in our spectral database under UVC low-pressure mercury lamp (253.7 nm) for download; the spectra of further UV lamps and UV LEDs are listed there as well.
The UVA hand-held lamp in detail: the maximum lies at 365 nm with about 21 W/m²/nm, accompanied only by the weak mercury line at 313 nm with about 1 W/m²/nm. Above 385 nm practically nothing is left - that is the work of the blocking filter.
The tubes can be replaced by the user. First unplug the mains cable. Then undo the four screws of the upper cover with the handle and lift the inner reflector plate - the UV tubes lie underneath. Turning them releases them easily, and they can be replaced with the matching spare lamp.
Safety instructions
The device emits UV-A and UV-C radiation. UV radiation is invisible and harmful to skin and eyes. Any visible light is only luminescence excited by the radiation; it is usually much weaker than the exciting UV radiation.
UV radiation can cause cataracts in the lens of the eye, inflammation of the retina and conjunctivitis. Do not look into the UV radiation with unprotected eyes and always wear suitable UV protective goggles when operating the device. UV radiation also causes skin discolouration, erythema and skin ageing; use suitable clothing, gloves or sunscreen - depending on the irradiation dose.
The devices are designed and classified according to DIN EN 62471:2009-03 "Photobiological safety of lamps and lamp systems"; the hand-held lamps fall into risk group 3.
We are glad to support you in setting up UV workplaces and with the risk assessment according to DIN EN 14255:2005.
Order numbers, scope of delivery, accessories and versions
| Version | Order number |
|---|---|
| UV-A/C hand-held lamp | 862506 |
| UV-A hand-held lamp (365 nm) | 862507 |
| UV-C hand-held lamp (254 nm) | 862508 |
The hand-held lamp is available with both spectral ranges or with only one. Scope of delivery: the hand-held lamp with tubes and the mains cable.
| Designation | Order number |
|---|---|
| Stand | 962500 |
| UV protective goggles | 918800 |
The stand holds the lamp above the sample. The UV protective goggles protect the eyes and the surroundings from stray radiation; the light source is classified in risk group 3 according to DIN EN 62471.
| Spectral range | Order number |
|---|---|
| Spare lamp UV-A | 862540A |
| Spare lamp UV-C | 862540C |
The tubes can be replaced by the user - see "Replacing the tubes".
