LP UV index radiometer

The radiometer LP UVI 02 measures the global effective irradiance on a flat surface (Watt / m2 effective), according to the requirements of the WMO for the measurement of UV-index. The global irradiance is the sum of direct sun and of diffuse irradiance. In the ultraviolet spectral region, unlike what occurs in the portion of the visible light where the direct component is prevalent on the diffuse component, the light is strongly scattered in the atmosphere, and then the two components are equal; it is therefore of primary importance that the radiometer is able to accurately measure both components.

The power supplied is required at 8-30 Vdc, except for the version LP UVI 02 AV10 (voltage output 0-10 V) which is of 15-30 Vdc.

The instrument is managed to operate for long periods without maintenance (except cleaning of the dome and checking the status of silica gel) provided that it is properly powered. This feature makes the device ideal for use in remote weather stations also.

The radiometer can also be used for monitoring of solar UV. Today, many services that provide weather data include the UV index in the available data. The data are used to determine the degree of protection required for the sunlight does not cause damage to the skin and then to human health.

L’UV_index in accordance with the requirements of WMO is calculated from total

Effective Irradiance Eeff W/m 2

using the following formula:

UV_index= Eeff [W/m2 ] x 40 [UV_index]/[W/m2 ]

The UV-index scale indicates the potential damage that the solar ultraviolet radiation causes the skin and the eyes. The higher the value of UV-index the greater the likelihood of damage. Improve knowledge of the UV means improving the prevention of skin diseases; in fact, correct information of this index allows to take adequatemeasures.

In recent years, aided by the ozone hole, the attention given by the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/uv/intersunprogramme/activities/uv_index/en/) to the problem of exposure to ultraviolet radiation is increasing, as evidenced by the growth of scientific articles number regarding this topic