UV Dose and dose distribution
The most important descriptor for the strength and effectiveness of UV treatment is the UV-C dose (fluence) In layman’s terms this is the ‘amount’ of UV-C energy you need for a good and reliable disinfection of your water.
UV dose
The UV-C dose you get for your water treatment, depends on the UV-C intensity [W/m²] (fluence rate) and the exposure time [s] – so this is a product of UV-C power x exposure time. Dose is expressed in Joule per square meter [J/m²]. The intensity depends on the chosen UV source (lamp, LED), the UV-C transmittance (quality) of the water you intend to treat and the design of the treatment chamber. The exposure time is depending on the treatment chamber design (volume and hydraulics) and the flow rate through the chamber.
Dose standards
Different microorganisms and viruses require different UV-C doses for a reliably disinfection. To keep it simple and secure – talking about standard potable water applications: A dose of 400 J/m² has become the standard in most European countries. This dose is expected to reliably inactivate 99,99% of common waterborne pathogens.
For non drinking water applications often no certified or validated systems are required but a properly by professionals engineered and dimensioned UV-C treatment can also do the job.
