How to Plan UV LED Technology Correctly: UVA, UVB and UVC Explained

UV LEDs offer many possibilities – but which solution is right for your application? Luminaire manufacturers, project companies, lighting designers and electricians often face the same questions: Do I need UVA, UVB or UVC? How much output is required? And how can the technology be integrated safely?

The right planning process therefore starts with the application, not the product. Exceedation helps define the requirements and works with REDMADE to identify the appropriate UV LED solution.

UVA, UVB and UVC – What Is the Difference?

The first step is selecting the right UV range:

• UVA: 315–400 nm – commonly used for curing, adhesives, coatings, inspection and detection
• UVB: 280–315 nm – used in specialised scientific, photobiological and technical applications
• UVC: 100–280 nm – used, among other purposes, for disinfection applications

The key question is therefore: What should the UV radiation achieve in your application?

The required effect determines which wavelength range is appropriate.

Understanding Wavelength, Output and Distance

Once the application is clear, the next step is practical system design. Module output is only one part of the equation. Wavelength, working distance, target area and operating time also influence the result. A higher-output module is therefore not automatically the better solution. What matters is delivering the required UV radiation to the right area at an appropriate intensity. These parameters should be defined before selecting the product.

Consider Safety from the Beginning

UV radiation can damage the eyes and skin. Safety should therefore be considered from the earliest stages of system design. Depending on the application, shielding, enclosed housings or other protective measures may be required. REDMADE also explicitly advises users of the SpecialRED R5D84 to provide appropriate protection for eyes and skin. 

The key principle is simple: Do not only select the right module – design the complete application safely.

Not Sure Where To Start?

You do not need to know every technical detail at the beginning of a project. Four questions provide a good starting point:

1. What should the UV LED achieve? 
2. Which area needs to be irradiated? 
3. How will the module be integrated? 
4. And under which conditions will the system operate?

Exceedation helps you evaluate these requirements and works with REDMADE to identify the appropriate UV LED configuration.