Custom UV LED Modules for Integrated Photonic Solutions

How to Choose the Right UV LED Module

1. Choose the application of the module.

Identify the specific purpose for using the module as follows:

• For curing drugs – adhesives, inks, and coatings
• Disinfection and sterilization – water, air, and medical
• Excitation of fluorescence for diagnostics and sensors for laboratories and NDT.
• Printing or therapy via UV radiation
• Industrial visual inspection systems

Different applications may need different cooling methods, intensities, and even wavelengths.

2. Select the appropriate wavelength.

• Wavelengths 265 – 280 nm will be effective for sterilization and tissue disinfection while having germicidal impact.
• For therapeutic use, 300 – 320 nm will suffice for UVB as well as certain biochemical applications.
• Wavelength of 365nm is effective for UV curing and reclamation, inspections, and fluorescence detection and is classified under UVA.
• Between 395 and 405 nm can be used for cost effective general illumination and curing purposes.

Always ensure to your choice is based on your target photoreactive or fluorescence material.

3. Verification of Output Power and Intensity

Evaluated in mW/cm² or total radiant flux (in mW or W).

The curing time is directly proportional to the power output, as is the strength of the fluorescence observed.

Decide if you require:

• Spot modules (focused beam)
• Flood modules (wide area coverage)
• Linear modules (found in conveyors or lines)

4. Assessment of Thermal Management

UV LEDs generate significant heat. Look for:

• Integrated fan or water-cooled modules
• Low thermal resistance (aluminum MCPCB or ceramic)

These modules will suffer degraded performance and a reduced lifespan due to poor heat dissipation.

5. Compatibility with Power Supply and Drivers

• Check for the correct voltage and current requirements such as 12V or 24V constant current/voltage.
• For each module, ensure that the power supply is aligned with the specifications.
• Some modules have integrated drivers while others need external one(s) to be fully functional.

6. Configuration and Installation

• The equipment or fixture should accommodate the size and shape (round, strip, square).
• Some modules are equipped as plug-and-play while the others require PCB mounting.
• Consider the IP rating where the equipment is placed if it’s dusty or humid.

7. Service life and Dependability

• A UV lamp should last 10,000 to 50,000 hours.
• Quality modules provide LM-80 and/or MTTF results.
• Find the ESD protection of the device; it can be crucial in sensitive environments.

8. Additional functionalities

• Optics: shape the beam using Lens, Collimator, or reflector
• Ability to dim and PWM control.
• Calibration of the wavelength/ binning or grouping of the same wavelengths.
• Sensors with status indicators or reporting functions.

2. Choose the Right Wavelength

⚠️ Choose based on the photo-reactive material or fluorescence target you’re working with.

3. Check Output Power & Intensity

• Measured in mW/cm² or total radiant flux (mW or W)

• Higher power = faster curing or stronger fluorescence

• Consider whether you need:

  • Spot modules (focused beam)

  • Flood modules (large-area coverage)

  • Linear modules (used in conveyors or lines)

4. Evaluate Thermal Management

UV LEDs generate significant heat. Look for:

• Built-in heat sinks or active cooling (fan or water-cooled modules)

• Low thermal resistance substrates (e.g., aluminum MCPCB or ceramic)

🧊 Poor thermal control will reduce lifespan and performance.

5. Power Supply & Driver Compatibility

• Confirm voltage and current requirements (e.g., 12V, 24V constant current or constant voltage)

• Make sure your power supply matches the module specs

• Some modules include integrated drivers; others require external ones

6. Form Factor and Mounting

• Size and shape (e.g., round, square, strip) should fit your equipment or fixture

• Some modules are PCB-mounted, while others are enclosed for plug-and-play

• Consider IP rating if used in humid or dusty environments

7. Lifespan & Reliability

• Look for rated lifespans of 10,000–50,000 hours

• High-quality modules will list LM-80 test results or MTTF

• Check if the module is ESD protected (especially important in sensitive environments)

8. Optional Features

• Optics: Lens, reflector, or collimator to shape the beam

• Dimming or PWM control

• Wavelength calibration or binning

• Integrated sensors or status indicators

🧪 Summary Checklist