T5 and UV ?

[RelaxingWithTheReef]

When I measure the spectrum of the individual ATI bulbs, they match the spectrum plots provided by ATI. The only thing I don’t see is the little UV peak I believe is the 365nm Mercury line.

This is the spectrum of my ATI Powermodule with:
5 Blue Plus
2 True Actinic
1 Coral Plus

There is some measurable UV energy from around 400nm down to around 380nm. This energy is strictly from the True Actinic bulb. None of the other bulbs produce significant energy below 400nm.

Zoomed into the UV region, we can see the resulting spectrum passing through glass and acrylic lenses.

No Lens

Acrylic Lens

Glass Lens

Afternoon daylight today for reference

Maybe there is an ever so slight attenuation of 380-390nm UV when passing through the lenses. If that's the case, I can't imagine it's significant.

 

[ChrisRD]

You see a lot of great SPS tanks like this under T-5s. I think it's the full spectrum and the diffuse nature of the light (less shading) more than anything to do with UV.

 

[Yanir34]

You see a lot of great SPS tanks like this under T-5s. I think it's the full spectrum and the diffuse nature of the light (less shading) more than anything to do with UV.

The only downside with T5's is the shimmer. I

 

[SeaDweller]

The only downside with T5's is the shimmer. I

*lack of, which is why i assume you run the Kessil.

Just regular overhead ceiling lighting over my tank provides that shimmer that T5 doesnt.

 

[Yanir34]

*lack of, which is why i assume you run the Kessil.

Just regular overhead ceiling lighting over my tank provides that shimmer that T5 doesnt.

I have changed the nozzle from return pump upwards to water surface , and happy to see some shimmer

Right now I will not work with the kessils, just 10 T5 bulbs.