Standardization News

Manufacturers can measure emission characteristics of ultraviolet lamps, which are key tools for important safety and quality testing in a variety of industries, using a new ASTM International standard. Lamps covered by the practice (E3022, Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteristics of UV-A Lamps Used in Fluorescent Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing) are used for production and in-service inspections of bridges, buildings, aircraft, auto components and more.

According to ASTM member John Brausch, such inspections are common and critical processes that ensure the integrity of infrastructure, products and parts around the world.

"UV-A lamps play a key role in these inspections, enhancing the visibility of fluorescing contrast pigments and dyes that have been trapped by damage or material flaws," says Brausch. The introduction of LED (light-emitting diode) technologies led to the development of the new standard.

The standard defines methods for measuring the emission characteristics of UV-A lamps and defines the minimum performance requirements for these lamps in nondestructive testing applications. Lamp manufacturers will use it to ensure their products meet such requirements for ultraviolet irradiance, emission characteristics and projected beam profile.

CONTACT Technical Information: John Brausch, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base • Dayton, Ohio • tel +1.937.656.9151 | ASTM Staff: Kathleen Chalfin • tel +1.610.832.9717 | Upcoming Meeting: Jan. 24-28, 2016 • Fort Lauderdale, Fla.