How to increase your UV Lamp’s Life beyond the warranty period

UV curing lamps are commonly used in industries such as Offset / Screen printing, PCB manufacturing, Footwear industry, Glass Bottles decoration, coatings, and adhesive applications. Proper care and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of UV curing lamps beyond their warranted hours. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

Proper Installation: Ensure the UV curing lamp is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Improper installation can cause damage and reduce the lamp’s lifespan. Always wear latex gloves when unpacking and then handling a UV lamp, as any residue and oil from your fingertips will contaminate the surface of the lamp and cause issues once it is ignited. Before placing the lamp into the UV system, ensure you clean the lamp body with isopropanol wipes.

Avoid Frequent On/Off Cycling: Repeatedly turning the lamp on and off can shorten its lifespan. If possible, maintain a steady state of operation and minimize the number of times the lamp is switched on and off. Avoid excessive starts – this can cause contamination due to the electrodes throwing off tungsten into the lamp. When you remove the UV lamp from the system, check that the electrical connections are tight and not eroded.
Regular Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can accumulate on the lamp and its reflector, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage. Clean the lamp and surrounding components regularly with a isopropyl wipes to ensure optimal performance. Ensure the UV system is clear of all external contamination, such as inks and paper dust, and clean the lamps regularly with isopropyl wipes. Allow the lamp to cool for at least 10 minutes after the power has been turned off, before you handle the lamp.

Monitor Cooling and Ventilation: Overheating can significantly reduce the lifespan of UV curing lamps. Make sure the lamp has adequate cooling and ventilation to prevent overheating.
Check Electrical Connections: Ensure that electrical connections are secure and functioning properly. Loose or damaged connections can cause arcing and other issues that can damage the lamp.
Avoid Physical Damage: Handle the lamp with care during installation and maintenance. Physical damage such as scratches, cracks, or impacts can shorten the lamp’s lifespan.

By following these maintenance and usage tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your UV curing lamps beyond their warranted hours. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific guidance on maintenance and operation.

DR Optical Disc India Pvt Ltd has over 25 years of experience in UV technology and are experts in troubleshooting issues with lamp and UV system performance. However, even the very best products crafted from the best materials will need to be replaced in the end. DR Optical Disc India Pvt Ltd can provide replacement UV lamps for virtually any UV system, as well as system spares and accessories including: