UV-C water disinfection

UV-C water disinfection technology is a physical treatment without chemical disinfectants. Moreover, its effectiveness on micro-organisms makes it particularly interesting.

UV light - Definition

Ultraviolet or “UV” is a type of energy found in the electromagnetic spectrum. That is, between X-rays and visible light. This means that UV rays are not perceptible to the human eye. However, we are exposed to this every time we go out in the sun. In fact, UV light is responsible for sunburn.

Their wavelength is between 100 nm and 400 nm. These rays are divided into three categories, each with increasing energy: UV-A (315 – 400 nm), UV-B (280 – 315 nm), UV-C (100 – 280 nm)

For disinfection, we are only interested in UVC.

Principle of disinfection by UV radiation

UV-C water disinfection systems use special lamps that emit UVC light. These have a particular wavelength capable of disrupting the DNA of microorganisms.

These UV light waves are also called “spectrum” or “germicidal frequency”.

The frequency used in killing microorganisms is 254 nanometers (nm).

When water passes through a UV water treatment system:

  • the rays produced by the lamps reach the pathogenic microorganisms that pass by. These UV lamps contained in a reactor are usually made of stainless steel.
  • They are exposed to a lethal dose of UVC light that attacks the DNA, thus eliminating the ability of the microorganism to reproduce.
  • Thanks to this process, it cannot replicate itself or infect other organisms with which it comes into contact.

This process of exposing water to UV light is simple and effective, killing 99.99% of harmful microorganisms without adding chemicals to the water. In addition, it is a safe method that creates no harmful chemical by-products.

How to eliminate bacteria

Type C ultraviolet light (UV-C) disinfection is a proven, environmentally-friendly method for effectively eliminating bacteria from water. This physical process, with no added chemicals, neutralises micro-organisms by altering their DNA, rendering them incapable of reproducing and therefore harmless.

How UV-C disinfection works

UV-C disinfection systems use special lamps emitting light at a wavelength of 254 nanometres, which is optimal for the germicidal effect. When water circulates near these lamps, the micro-organisms it contains are exposed to this light, which disrupts their DNA and prevents them from reproducing. This process eliminates up to 99.99% of pathogens without altering the physico-chemical properties of the water, such as taste or odour.

Components of a UV-C disinfection system

A typical system includes :

  • Reactor: Chamber where water is exposed to UV light.

  • UV lamp: Source of UV-C radiation.

  • Quartz sleeve: Tube protecting the lamp while allowing UV rays to pass through.

  • Ballast: Control unit that regulates the power supply to the lamp.

These components work together to ensure optimum water disinfection.

UV-C disinfection applications

UV-C disinfection is used in a number of areas, including :

  • Domestic consumption : Drinking water treatment for homes and cottages.

  • Industries : Pharmaceutical, food processing, cosmetics, etc., requiring micro-organism-free water.

  • Swimming pools and spas: Maintain water quality without excessive use of chemicals.

  • Aquaculture: Protection of fish farms against pathogens.

This versatility makes UV-C disinfection the preferred solution for ensuring safe, healthy water in a wide range of applications.

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