Author Topic: UV exp bulbs Can you get them just anyplace?  (Read 1083 times)

Offline Dottonedan

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UV exp bulbs Can you get them just anyplace?
« on: February 28, 2017, 04:24:37 PM »
Can you get these exp unit UV tube/lamps at a home depot/Lowes or is this something you only get at a screen print supply store?
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Offline Frog

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Re: UV exp bulbs Can you get them just anyplace?
« Reply #1 on: February 28, 2017, 05:01:19 PM »
Nope, most regular stores will probably not sell the unfiltered type. (though I've been surprised before) Your local reptile shop, or a real bulb dealer or, there's plenty of places online, like http://www.topbulb.com/20w-t12-fluorescent-blacklight-medium-bi-pin-base. You probably want longer ones, but this should get you started
« Last Edit: February 28, 2017, 05:40:01 PM by Frog »
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Offline Steve Harpold

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Re: UV exp bulbs Can you get them just anyplace?
« Reply #3 on: February 28, 2017, 07:08:36 PM »
It is funny you ask this.  It is getting harder and harder to buy these of the shelf.  We are consdier canceling all exposure units but the LED versions because of this! Bulb that used to work do not work anymore. 

If it helps:
Look for bulbs that have a wavelength peak of roughly 395 - 405
410 peak+ - will leave most emulsions slimy and underexposed
368 peak and below-  will harden thinly coats screens but leave the print side slimy.

Aquarium bulbs are your best bet, but those are also going led. 

We have strip conversions you can buy to turn your exposure unit to LED.

Offline Atownsend

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Re: UV exp bulbs Can you get them just anyplace?
« Reply #4 on: February 28, 2017, 07:37:39 PM »
What about a grow shop? There are lots of shops popping up that sell supplies for growing plants indoors. We have one in town here, no selling of plants / seeds, but they do sell the lights...