Nedap will participate in the 2026 RadTech UV&EB Conference, taking place on March 2-3, 2026 in San Diego, USA.
The BIG IDEAS for UV+EB Technology Conference will take place aboard the historic USS Midway Aircraft Carrier & Museum in San Diego, California. This evening conference brings together leaders in photopolymer chemistry, advanced manufacturing, coatings, energy, materials science, additive manufacturing, and DefenseTech to explore the breakthroughs shaping the future of UV and EB curing.
We will be showcasing our latest innovations at the NL Pavilion during IFAT, the world’s leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste, and raw materials management, from May 4-7 May, in Munich, Germany.
Come and meet our team at the Dutch Pavilion to explore new opportunities, share insights, and learn more about our contributions to the water sector.
Our team at IFAT: Richard Hogenkamp, Pieter Feenstra, Olga Kruidhof and Peter Wolberink.
Nedap will be exhibiting at the 2026 IOA World Conference, organised by the International Ozone Association. The conference will showcase leading edge technologies for Municipal water, Municipal wastewater and Industrial process applications with special attention to both Ozone and AOP Technologies.
Nedap will participate in the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA) Conference Congress (dates are still to be determined).
Join Nedap UV at the WEFTEC 2026 Exhibit! The 99th Annual Technical Exhibition & Conference will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center | New Orleans, La. USA from September 28 – 30, 2026
Impact of energizing waveform on UV efficiency of low-pressure UV lamps
During the IUVA World conference, Tonnie Telgenhof Oude Koehorst (Nedap) hosted a session on how energizing waveform impacts the UV efficiency of low-pressure UV lamps.
The IUVA conference brings together experts and innovators from around the globe to exchange knowledge on UV technology. We’re proud to contribute to this conversation and to keep pushing the boundaries of sustainable UV solutions.
Main take-aways
The UV efficiency can still be improved.
Driving lamp current frequency is critical and has substantial impact on UV-C output.
Harmonics in the driving current of driver and lamp, will reduce overall (UV) efficiency.
Cable lengths affect the efficiency of the overall system, with 30 meters max as a rule of thumb (depending on lamp/cable type).
Optimizing all elements of the power supply – from power line, driver, lamp cable to waveform/frequency – can result in energy savings of 11 to 23%.
Optimizing UV performance of low-pressure UV lamps
Low-pressure (LP) amalgam lamps are currently the primary source of UV-C light used in water and air disinfection systems. Globally, the number of UV-C lamps installed in disinfection units is in the millions. This widespread deployment underscores the importance of optimizing every component in these systems for energy efficiency.
Lamp-type UV sources nowadays show UV efficiencies between 11% and 40% (low-, medium pressure and DBD lamps). UVC LEDs are nowadays up to 7,5% but still a far way to go before reaching same (35 to 40%) UV efficiency, especially for large scale industrial and municipal water treatment plants.
Also for low-pressure UV lamps, now available up to 1000W, there is still improvement possible in UV efficiency by energizing the lamp in the right way.
Operation of low-pressure mercury lamps
During ignition and the initial warm-up phase, a low-pressure mercury lamp rapidly increases its UV-C radiant flux until it reaches the maximum output level. After this point, the effective efficiency declines as a function of several operational and physical parameters, including:
- Lamp temperature – influences mercury vapor pressure and optimal discharge conditions.
- Lamp current – affects plasma stability and electrode loading.
- Operating frequency – determines discharge dynamics and power transfer efficiency.
- Waveform characteristics – deviations from optimized drive waveforms reduce conversion efficiency.
- Lamp lifetime (aging effects) – electrode degradation, mercury consumption, and coating deterioration progressively reduce UV-C output.
So, there is one key shared parameter between lamp and power supply that still offers room for improvement in UV-C output: the shape and frequency of the electrical current.
Frequency dependence of UV-C Efficiency
The relationship between UV-C efficiency and frequency in LP lamps was extensively studied in the 1960s through both experimental and theoretical work (Chr. Meyer, 1989). The resulting theoretical models aligned well with experimental data and helped establish the foundation for the design of modern electronic drivers.
Frequency spectrum of plasma current in an LP lamp can be divided into four characteristic regions:
TD: Time constant of ambipolar diffusion. In this low-frequency range, the discharge behaves like a slowly varying DC discharge.
THg: Lifetime of excited mercury atoms. In this intermediate range, frequency modulation affects the electron temperature, resulting in reduced UVC output compared to DC.
This range yields the maximum electron temperature, enhancing mercury atom excitation and maximizing UVC emission.
Te: Relaxation time of electron energy. At very high frequencies, discharge parameters (e.g. electron temperature, concentration) remain constant, similar to DC behavior.
Where ω=2πf and f is the frequency of the energizing lamp voltage/current.
These frequency ranges show that changing the current frequency—while keeping input power constant—can either increase or decrease UV-C output.
Implications for electronic power supplies
Most commonly used electronic drivers operate in the optimal frequency range 3 (1/tHg << ω << 1/te), typically between 30 and 60 kHz. However, their output current waveform is not a pure sine wave—it contains harmonics. These harmonics often fall outside the optimal region and into range 4, which corresponds to discharge conditions similar to DC operation.
As a result, these harmonics do not contribute to increased UV-C output, and thus reduce the overall efficiency of the system.
Conclusion
While UV-C lamp and driver efficiency has plateaued in terms of traditional optimization, current waveform design and frequency control present a critical remaining lever for improving UV-C output. Designing power supplies that maximize operation within the optimal frequency window – and minimize harmonic distortion – can lead to meaningful gains in energy efficiency and disinfection performance.
Want to see how waveform optimization can boost your system’s efficiency? Get in touch with our experts and discover how Nedap’s smart drivers help you reduce energy use and optimize UV performance.
Nedap received the Sustainability Award at the RadTech UV+EB Technology Conference 2025, a recognition of our commitment to sustainable UV solutions.
Ultraviolet (UV) and Electron Beam (EB) technologies play a vital role in industrial applications. They enable fast, efficient curing of materials like coatings, adhesives, and inks – without added heat or solvents. This is especially true for medium-pressure systems, which, thanks to their broad spectrum and high intensity, support a wide range of curing processes.
Here is where our energy-efficient drivers make the difference. With 96.5% energy efficiency, they perform well above industry norms. The power factor of 0.99 and minimal harmonic distortion also reduce energy loss and infrastructure strain.
Nedap lamp drivers reach up to 96.5% electrical efficiency, well above the industry average of 91–93%. You convert almost all input power directly into UV output. The result? Less energy waste, lower running costs, and long-term savings—year after year.
You benefit from a Power Factor of 0.99, minimizing energy losses and preventing unnecessary stress on your electrical setup. Unlike other systems with lower factors (sometimes as low as 0.79), Nedap drivers help you avoid utility penalties and ensure smoother operation.
With just 5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), Nedap drivers deliver clean, stable power. You reduce grid losses, extend equipment life, and avoid faults caused by interference. Competing drivers often exceed 30–60% THD—something you don’t have to worry about with Nedap.
“Your technology is fascinating, and I appreciate that it can be applied to multiple applications.”
When you’re looking to reduce energy use and improve system performance, your choice of lamp driver matters. With Nedap, you gain more than just a product—you unlock next-level efficiency, power quality, and sustainability in your UV curing applications.
Curious what Nedap can do for your application? Get in touch with our team—we’re here to help.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of our UV portfolio. We’re looking back at exciting developments, proud highlights, and—yes—even a few less successful initiatives, like the Naïade.
From supplying the world’s largest UV drinking water treatment plant to designing a self-sustaining, solar-powered purification system—at Nedap, we foster entrepreneurship and initiative. We’re passionate and driven to make a sustainable impact.
This mindset helped position Nedap as a leading supplier in UV lamp driver technology. Not every project turned out to be a commercial success, but each one brought valuable lessons.
Tonnie Telgenhof Oude Koehorst, who has been with Nedap for over forty years, looks back.
Nedap has always had a strong position as specialist in the development of electronics.
In 1992 UV technology gained momentum in water treatment. Historically, chlorination was the most used technology to treat water. Following several outbreaks of waterborne diseases caused by highly chlorine-resistant microbes in the USA in 1993, UV technology obtained global recognition. UV technology proved effective against Legionella and even highly chlorine-resistant microbes such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium.
“I’ve always been able to do my own thing. To me, that feels like entrepreneurship within Nedap—and I’m proud of that.”
About Tonnie Telgenhof Oude Koehorst
- Has been working at Nedap since 1983; started as a 24-year-old Engineering graduate.
- Feels at home operating at the intersection of technology and commerce.
- Co-initiator and driving force behind Naïade.
- Plays bass in big bands and soul bands.
- Still drives the same Renault 17 Gordini he drove when he started at Nedap in 1983.
In 1995, Nedap produced its first lamp driver for 3kW medium pressure UV lamps –. The electronic driver replaced the electromagnetic ballast technology, that was the most used technology at its time. To this day, we continue to supply this driver in its third generation.
From the start of the millennium Nedap gradually changed its strategy and decided to stop designing and producing customer-specific products. Instead, it started developing its own product portfolio. This made the UV solutions scalable and created opportunities for further growth.
A big achievement was the supply of our UV lamp drivers to world’s largest UV drink water treatment plant near New York, producing 8.3 billion liter of water per day.
“After visiting the Catskill-Delaware Water Ultraviolet Disinfection Facility, where a technical room was filled with Nedap drivers, I couldn’t stop smiling the entire flight back to the Netherlands.”
At the time, Nedap already had in-house expertise in UV light, solar energy, electronics, and power supplies. The team began thinking: how else could this technology be used to create meaningful impact?
That question sparked the initial idea for Naïade. “We were at a reception,” Tonnie recalls with a grin, “with a glass of wine, a glass of beer, and a glass of technology. And someone said: what if you could use solar power to make drinking water? For remote villages in Africa or India.” That conversation led to the development of a robust, portable water purification system, simple, autonomous, and reliable. Dirty water went in at the top; safe, bacteria-free drinking water came out at the bottom. “ We had an idea, we believed in it and we started building – even before we had a business plan.”
Naïade was technically well thought-out. Water passed through a pre-filter and UV unit, powered by a solar panel and standard car battery. “One unit can provide clean drinking water to around 400 children a day. If you do the math over ten years, that comes out to about one to one-and-a-half euros per child per year. That’s nothing.”
Reactions at trade shows and among customers were enthusiastic. More than a thousand systems were built and delivered, including to China, India, and Rwanda. In Rwanda, the system led to a 40% increase in school attendance. “Those children used to suffer from chronic diarrhea. Not anymore.”
Implementation was not always smooth. Cables were chewed through by monkeys, components disappeared, and solar panels turned up as roof covers. “We quickly learned that you always need someone on site—someone who knows the people, understands the system, maintains it, and genuinely takes ownership.”
A local partner organization in Rwanda made all the difference. “There are still about twenty units running there, supported by a local couple. And it works.”
Despite its potential, Naïade never evolved into a sustainable business model. “In many countries, water is free, or people simply collect it from rivers. The idea of paying for water isn’t part of daily life.” That made it challenging to introduce a product that required upfront investment, no matter how low the long-term costs. Introducing new technology into existing ecosystems also proved complex. Many non-profit organizations already had their own solutions and well-established networks.
“It’s important to understand that every region and organization works differently,” says Tonnie. “To make a real difference, you need strong local partnerships and people who truly believe in the solution.” In some regions, practical challenges such as logistics, regulations, and administrative processes slowed implementation. “You need someone on the ground who understands the local dynamics and can build lasting trust. That’s essential for long-term success.”
Naïade also provided valuable lessons within Nedap. The project showed that high quality technology alone is not enough. Local partnerships, education, and distribution are just as important.
Above all, Naïade taught Tonnie that idealism and realism must go hand in hand. “We didn’t achieve financial success, but we did create impact, gained valuable experience and built a strong reputation; something that still benefits our UV solutions today.”
This insight also reflects one of Nedap’s key success factors: strong, long-term partnerships with customers—some of whom we’ve been working with for decades. We’re genuinely grateful for that trust. It makes all the difference.
From 11 to 14 March 2025, the international trade fair Aquatech Amsterdam took place at the RAI. With 20,483 visitors from 136 countries and 889 exhibitors, Aquatech is one of the world’s largest water technology events. For Nedap, it was the perfect opportunity to meet international partners and present new innovations.
Olga Kruidhof
One of the product highlights on the exhibition floor was the introduction of Nedap’s new Smart Ozone driver technology. Ozone is increasingly being used worldwide to effectively tackle micro-pollutants in water. With the Ozone driver, Nedap applies its proven smart driver technology to power ozone generators. The event provided a valuable moment to connect with potential customers and explore their specific needs.
Another key moment during Aquatech was the official launch of the UV Alliance on Wednesday, 12 March. On the Industrial Stage, the founding members presented the mission and vision of this new collaboration.
In this video, the members share why the alliance was founded and the impact they aim to create in advancing sustainable UV water treatment technologies.
Curious about our Ozone driver technology or the goals of the UV Alliance? Get in touch with us for more information.
Official launch of UV Alliance
On February 1, 2025, the UV Alliance was officially established. Nedap is one of the initiators of this center of expertise for UV technology. With this alliance, we aim to increase awareness of UV technology and contribute to a sustainable, future-proof water cycle.
Olga Kruidhof
The need for collaboration
All participating companies have been active in the UV market for decades. What led to the founding of the UV Alliance? Ton van Remmen, owner of Van Remmen UV Technology, explains:
“I am truly passionate about UV technology and the positive impact it can have. But I find it frustrating that so many myths exist in the market. There is a huge gap between what the market knows and what this technology is actually capable of. We need to close that gap. That’s why I took the initiative to establish the UV Alliance. I stepped out of my comfort zone and reached out to my competitor. At first, it felt a bit uncomfortable, but we quickly realized that we were facing the same challenges. From there, we joined forces. With the launch of the UV Alliance, we have reached a real milestone. Together, we can showcase the true impact of UV technology.”
Activities of the UV Center of expertise
For the Alliance, honest knowledge sharing about UV technology is a key foundation, but the collaboration goes beyond that. By sharing real-world examples, members aim to further professionalize the UV market. Currently, decisions about solutions often focus on UV technology itself, while that is not the right starting point. At its core, it’s about building strong business cases. By demonstrating potential savings in water usage, energy, and waste reduction, UV technology becomes relevant. It helps organizations build a sustainable water cycle.
Roadshow
The UV market is a highly specialized, knowledge-intensive niche. With the UV Alliance, members aim to make the UV story more accessible, even for water professionals who do not work with UV technology daily. To achieve this, the UV Alliance will take the stage at several international water events in the coming months. One such event is Aquatech Amsterdam, where the UV Alliance will present on Wednesday, March 12, from 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM on the “Industrial Stage” in Hall 12.
Growth plans
The UV Alliance was founded with four core members but aims to expand by welcoming more UV-related companies. To facilitate this, a foundation has been established, which manages the UV Community. Foundation members organize events, develop in-depth knowledge articles, and maintain the digital platform: uv-alliance.com.
The four founding members of the UV Alliance are:
- Van Remmen UV Technology
- Nedap
- VGE B.V.
- Dissol GmbH
