A majority of people are familiar with the special effect of what we commonly call black lights. When everything else is dark, a black light makes certain objects glow in the dark. This is because certain objects “fluoresce” under ultraviolet (UV) light, which is what is emitted by black light.
When we talk about black lights, many of us are actually referring to what the lighting industry calls a “blacklight blue” bulb (BLB). There are differences between these and what the industry calls a true black light (BL). Below, we explore those differences.
Blacklight Blue Bulbs
Blacklight blue bulbs are a type of fluorescent light bulb that emit a blue-violet light. They are often used for special effects, such as in nightclubs or at events, to create a unique lighting experience. They can also be used for more practical purposes, such as detecting certain types of dyes or in forensic investigations. They are also called UV-A bulb or blacklight bulb.
These bulbs are not the same as true black lights, which emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the UVA spectrum, and may not emit as much UV radiation as true black lights. Blacklight blue bulbs are typically less expensive than true black lights and can be found in a variety of sizes and shapes, such as standard light bulb, tube, or compact fluorescent. They are also commonly used in UV-Curing, UV-Inspection, UV-Adhesives and UV-Sterilization.
Product Example: Satco Blacklight Blue Tube Light
Black Lights
UV black lights, also known as ultraviolet (UV) lights, emit ultraviolet radiation in the UVA spectrum. They are often used for special effects in entertainment, such as in nightclubs or at events, to create a unique lighting experience. They can also be used for more practical applications, such as detecting certain types of dyes or in forensic investigations.
One of the most common uses of black lights is to make fluorescent materials glow. Many substances, such as certain types of paint, ink, and even some types of bacteria, will fluoresce when exposed to UV light. This property makes black lights useful in a wide range of applications, including art restoration, crime scene investigation, and even pest control.
Black lights are also commonly used in UV-Curing, UV-Inspection, UV-Adhesives and UV-Sterilization. UV-Curing uses UV light to dry and harden adhesives, coatings, and inks. UV-Inspection is used to detect defects or contaminants in products. UV-Adhesives are used in bonding, sealing, and laminating processes. UV-Sterilization uses UV light to kill microorganisms on surfaces.
Black lights typically emit UV radiation in the UVA spectrum, which is not visible to the human eye but can cause certain materials to fluoresce. These bulbs come in different shapes and sizes and are commonly found in tube or bulb shape.
Product Example: Feit Electric Blacklight A19 Bulb
Black Lights vs. Blacklight Blue Bulbs
Black lights, also known as ultraviolet (UV) lights, emit ultraviolet radiation in the UVA spectrum. These lights are often used for special effects in entertainment, such as in nightclubs or at events, to create a unique lighting experience. They can also be used for more practical applications, such as detecting certain types of dyes or in forensic investigations.
Blacklight blue bulbs, on the other hand, are a type of fluorescent bulb that emit a blue-violet light, which can be used for similar purposes as black lights, such as special effects and detecting certain materials. However, blacklight blue bulbs are not the same as true black lights and may not emit as much UV radiation.
After reading this article, we hope this helps you to understand the difference between black lights and blacklight blue bulbs! It is a somewhat confusing topic until you’ve seen the facts. And if you need black lights or any kind of lighting at all, Lighting and Supplies here to assist by answering your questions and helping to take your order.
Advice for Buying Black Light Bulbs
When buying black light bulbs, there are a few things to consider:
- Spectrum: Make sure the bulb you are buying emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the UVA spectrum. This is the spectrum that causes certain materials to fluoresce.
- Wattage: Consider the wattage of the bulb to ensure it will provide enough light for your needs. The higher the wattage, the brighter the bulb will be.
- Size and shape: Make sure the size and shape of the bulb will fit your fixture or lamp. Black light bulbs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, such as standard light bulb, tube, or compact fluorescent.
- Quality: Look for bulbs that have been manufactured to a high standard, with a good reputation and warranty, to ensure they will last longer and emit consistent light output.
- Purpose: If you are buying a black light bulb for a specific purpose, such as UV-curing, UV-inspection, UV-Adhesives or UV-Sterilization, make sure you purchase a bulb that is specifically designed for that purpose.
- Brand: Go for a reputable brand. Check customer reviews, ratings and warranty offered by the manufacturer.
By considering these factors, you can be sure you’re buying a black light bulb that will meet your needs and provide the desired effects.
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