Mineralight and Black-Ray Ultraviolet Lamps and Accessories
Minerals Unlimited is an authorized UVP Ultraviolet Products supplier. UVP manufactures a wide range of UV lamps for use in many applications including fluorescence of minerals. Selected lamp models can be used with lamps stands and cabinets for hands-free viewing.
The following information discusses the use of these lamps in fluorescing minerals as well as
detailed information on the lamps and accessories.
Mineral Collecting
Mineral collecting and fluorescing minerals are enjoyed as a hobby as well as for prospecting, at schools for science education and also for museum display cases. Numerous minerals not readily discernible to the human eye will glow colorfully under ultraviolet light. Some minerals are sensitive only to shortwave UV (254nm), but others will fluoresce with longwave UV (365nm) or midrange UV (302nm).
Mineralight shortwave UV lamps have a special UVG(TM) filter which screens out most visible light but allows passage of the shortwave UV rays. Blak-Ray lamps utilize longwave UV. When used in darkness, these rays excite vivid color responses from fluorescent objects such as mineral ores as well as many other types of fluorescent and phosphorescent materials.
When using shortwave UV, it is important to wear safety glasses to protect the eyes from harmful UV radiation.
Portable Handheld Lamp Models
For field use, several battery-operated hand lamps are available. Each lamp housing is manufactured of impact resistant plastic which resists fading, peeling or cracking.
The Mini UV Lamps are 4 watt models available with longwave UV or shortwave UV, or a combination of shortwave and longwave in one unit (also called multiband). They are lightweight and small enough to fit in a pocket. A nylon strap is attached for easy handling. Mini UV Lamps operate on 4 AA batteries (not included).
Portable UV Lamps are operated by two 6-volt lantern batteries (order separately). Optional 6V rechargeable batteries (two required) and charger (12V float battery charger) are also available. A distinctive wrap-around handle comfortably balances the lamp in your hand. A sliding wavelength selector is added on the UVGL-48 split-tube, multiband model for switching between wavelengths. A built-in flashlight is included.
Rechargeable 26P Series comes in three dual-tube models: shortwave, longwave, longwave/shortwave (multiband). A toggle switch on the UVSL-26P is for selection of longwave or shortwave separately or both wavelengths at the same time. A nylon strap runs along the back of the lamp enabling more flexibility of wrist movement for added viewing illumination. The internal gel-based, lead-acid battery can be charged for field operation. An optional 12V adapter plug is available for operating the lamp from a car cigarette lighter.
Handheld Lamps for Home or Office
UVP manufactures a large selection of A/C powered lamps. You can choose from durable plastic models (four or 6 watts) or the newer metal fabrication styles (EL Series with four, six or eight watts).
Durable, Plastic Models
The Compact UV Lamps (4 watts) feature models with longwave, shortwave, or multiband style. A snap-on wavelength selector for easy switching between wavelengths is provided with multiband units. An on/off button is conveniently located on the Compact UV Lamp back.
Handheld UV Lamps offer long, short or multiband long/shortwave UV models. These lightweight models have a comfortable, ergonomically designed handle. The multiband units come with a snap-on wavelength selector for easy switching between wavelengths. The on/off switch is located on the back of the lamp.
Rugged, Metal Models
This groups of lamps is composed of four, six and eight watt ultraviolet EL Series Lamps in a variety of configurations. The lamp housing is manufactured of rugged, scratch-resistant, powder-painted metal.
The IL Series basic models provide one wavelength of your choice plus one white tube -- the advantage of white light or UV illumination in one unit! Twin models have two tubes of the same wavelength. If you require multiple wavelengths, 2UV and 3UV EL Series Lamps utilize different wavelengths (contact Wendi at wendi@mineralsunlimited.com for more information). The 3UV Model, available only in the eight watt style, gives three wavelengths in one unit! No other lamp offers this versatility.
Display Lamps
UVP manufactures XX-15 and UVGD Display lamps for mineral fluorescence. The XX-15 Display Lamps use an aluminum reflector for optimum fluorescence. Fixtures come with two 15-watt tubes and brackets for wall of ceiling mounting. When ordering the XX-15S shortwave model, a filter cover is required to screen out most of the visible light while allowing passage of the shortwave UV rays. The optional Exposure Stand can be used with any of the XX-15 series lamps. Minerals can be placed on the shelf, which is adjustable.
You can also visit the UVP website for more information on items you can order from us.
