Optical Sensors & Detector – UV Sensors
UV Sensor for Electric Arc Detector – UV Arc
UV Arc – High-Speed UV Sensor for Electric Arc Detection and Power System Fault Monitoring
The UV Arc from SGLUX GmbH is a high-speed ultraviolet (UV) sensor specifically engineered for electric arc detection and fault monitoring in high-voltage and industrial power systems.
Built on Silicon Carbide (SiC) detector technology, the UV Arc sensor detects instantaneous UV radiation emitted by electrical arcs, corona discharges, or insulation failures — enabling early detection and fast system shutdown.
Its solar-blind spectral sensitivity (200–280 nm) ensures immunity to ambient light, welding sparks, and sunlight, providing reliable detection even in bright industrial environments.
Designed for switchgear cabinets, busbars, and transformers, the UV Arc offers microsecond response times, rugged TO-46 housing, and wide temperature stability, ensuring continuous performance under extreme conditions.
When integrated with a UV Arc Controller or PLC system, it forms a complete real-time electric arc safety monitoring system.
Understanding UV Sensor for Electric Arc Detector - UV Arc
The UV Arc sensor detects the ultraviolet flash generated during electrical arcing or discharge events, triggering immediate response in protection systems.
Its SiC-based solar-blind detector operates only in the deep UV-C range, eliminating false alarms from sunlight or artificial light sources.
With its microsecond-level response, it can sense arc faults in milliseconds, preventing catastrophic damage to electrical infrastructure.
Engineered for harsh industrial and high-voltage environments, the UV Arc offers a compact, rugged, and reliable detection solution for switchgear, control panels, and substation monitoring.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Function |
High-speed UV sensor for electric arc and discharge detection
|
| Detector Type |
Silicon Carbide (SiC) solar-blind photodiode
|
| Spectral Response |
200 – 280 nm (deep UV-C range)
|
| Peak Wavelength | 260 nm |
| Typical Responsivity | 0.12 A/W at 260 nm |
| Visible Blindness |
> 10¹⁰ (Smax / S>405 nm)
|
| Response Time | < 1 µs |
| Dark Current (1 V reverse bias) | 0.2 fA |
| Output Type |
Current / voltage signal (dependent on amplifier circuit)
|
| Operating Voltage |
5 – 12 V DC (via controller)
|
| Operating Temperature | −55 … +170 °C |
| Storage Temperature | −55 … +170 °C |
| Active Area | 0.06 mm² |
| Housing |
TO-46 hermetic metal can
|
| Connection |
Solder pins / wired assembly
|
| Protection |
EMI-resistant, UV-stable package
|
| Compatibility |
UV Arc Controller / AMPCON / VOLTCON
|
| Calibration |
Factory-calibrated, NIST/PTB traceable
|
| Applications |
Arc flash detection, switchgear safety, transformer fault monitoring, electrical control protection
|
Key Features and Advantages
Ultra-Fast Arc Detection
Responds in less than 1 microsecond, enabling immediate signal output to circuit breakers or safety PLCs.
Solar-Blind Sensitivity
Operates exclusively in the 200–280 nm UV-C range, completely immune to ambient or artificial light interference.
High-Temperature Stability
Performs reliably from −55 °C to +170 °C, ideal for use in hot switchgear enclosures and outdoor substations.
Compact, Rugged Design
Encased in a TO-46 metal housing, the sensor withstands vibration, humidity, and electromagnetic interference.
Low Dark Current and High Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Delivers clean signal output even under low UV intensity, ensuring precise event detection.
Flexible Integration Options
Interfaces easily with UV Arc Controllers, AMPCON amplifiers, or direct PLC input circuits for system-level automation.
Factory-Calibrated and Traceable
Each unit is factory-tested and NIST/PTB-traceable, ensuring accuracy and consistency across multi-point installations.
Maintenance-Free Operation
Solid-state SiC detector construction guarantees long lifetime without recalibration or optical degradation.
The UV Arc sensor provides unmatched performance in high-voltage safety systems, ensuring early fault detection, fast isolation, and enhanced operator safety in industrial power applications.
Applications Across Industries
Switchgear and Power Distribution Systems
Monitors electrical panels for arc flash events, triggering immediate trip or disconnection.
Transformer and Substation Monitoring
Detects corona or arcing inside oil-filled and air-insulated transformers to prevent breakdown.
Industrial Control Panels
Protects critical systems by identifying short-circuit arcs or insulation faults before catastrophic failure.
Electric Vehicle and Battery Systems
Applied in EV charging networks and battery enclosures for arc fault detection and fire prevention.
Railway and Aerospace Power Systems
Ensures continuous monitoring of high-voltage traction and onboard electrical systems.
Automation and Smart Grid Systems
Integrates with IoT and PLC platforms for predictive maintenance and safety analytics.
By combining microsecond response, solar blindness, and industrial-grade robustness, the UV Arc sensor is a cornerstone of modern arc flash safety and electrical protection systems.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
-
Exclusive distributor of SGLUX UV Arc Sensors in India
-
Expertise in electric arc detection, power safety, and automation integration
-
Local calibration traceable to NIST/PTB standards
-
Proven reliability across defence, railways, and power industries
-
Nationwide technical support, training, and after-sales service
FAQs
What does the UV Arc detect?
It detects ultraviolet radiation from electric arcs, corona discharges, or insulation breakdowns.
How fast is its response?
It reacts in less than 1 microsecond, allowing immediate shutdown or safety action.
Is it affected by sunlight or lamps?
No – it’s solar-blind, insensitive to visible and IR radiation.
Can it be used in high-temperature areas?
Yes – it operates reliably up to +170 °C in switchgear or transformer zones.
How does United Spectrum support customers?
By providing integration guidance, calibration, and service support for electrical and industrial safety projects across India.
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Have Any Questions ?
FAQs
What does the UV Arc detect?
It detects ultraviolet radiation from electric arcs, corona discharges, or insulation breakdowns.
How fast is its response?
It reacts in less than 1 microsecond, allowing immediate shutdown or safety action.
Is it affected by sunlight or lamps?
No – it’s solar-blind, insensitive to visible and IR radiation.
Can it be used in high-temperature areas?
Yes – it operates reliably up to +170 °C in switchgear or transformer zones.
How does United Spectrum support customers?
By providing integration guidance, calibration, and service support for electrical and industrial safety projects across India.

