Ushio USH-103D - 100W Short Arc Mercury Lamp for Microscopy and UV Curing
The Ushio USH-103D is a 100W short-arc mercury lamp designed to deliver high luminance, arc stability, and a nominal luminous flux of 3000 lm for scientific and instrumentation applications. Manufactured under strict ISO quality processes , it incorporates an improved electrode design that ensures precise arc positioning and an extended lifespan of 300 hours . Thanks to its emission in both the ultraviolet and visible spectrum , it is an ideal light source for fluorescence microscopy , spectrofluorometers , blood analyzers , optical comparators , and UV curing .
Its 20 ± 4 V DC operation with a 4–6 A range ensures stable performance. It features a 10 mm diameter double-terminal bulb , a 90 mm overall length , a 43 ± 1 mm LCL , and an 80 ± 1 mm contact spacing . It uses SFa7.5-2 (anode) and SFa9-2 (cathode) bases, with the recommended working position being "anode down" and a permissible vertical tilt of +45° . The USH-103D is widely used in classic 100 W systems from brands such as Olympus , Leitz , and Zeiss , and is also used in dental curing units (e.g., Ultra Cure 100 ).
Main features
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Lamp type: Short arc mercury (high pressure) with UV/visible emission.
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Power and supply: 100 W; 20 ± 4 V DC; 4–6 A.
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Nominal luminous flux: 3000 lm.
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Nominal useful life: 300 h (30% depreciation criterion).
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Key dimensions: Ø10 mm; total length 90 mm; LCL 43 ± 1 mm; contact to contact 80 ± 1 mm.
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Bases: SFa7.5-2 (anode) / SFa9-2 (cathode).
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Operating position: anode downwards; vertical tilt allowed +45°.
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Quality and construction: ISO processes with continuous improvement of electrode materials to optimize the light/life ratio.
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Notable compatibilities: 100W fluorescence systems from Olympus (e.g., BH2RFL, BHRFL, IMT2RFL), Leitz (LH100Z, LH102Z, 500-138) and Zeiss (Axiolab, Axioskop, Axioplan, Axiophot; references 3800184060 and 381613), as well as Ultra Cure 100 dental equipment (Dentsply/Efos/LD Caulk).
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Typical equivalent: OSRAM HBO 103W/2 (interchangeable in many 100W cases, always check power supply and support).
Product benefits
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Optical stability : ultra-stable arc for homogeneous illumination in fluorescence and repeatable measurements.
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Longer time between replacements : nominal life of 300 h that reduces downtime and maintenance.
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Easy integration : 100W format and standard SFa bases for direct replacement in numerous lamp holders of microscopes and UV equipment.
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UV performance : high luminance and efficiency for exciting common fluorophores and UV curing processes.
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Manufacturing quality : controlled by ISO and with precisely aligned electrodes for maximum reliability.
Use cases
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Fluorescence microscopy in teaching, R&D and quality control.
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Spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry in analytical laboratories.
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Clinical analyzers and optical metrology comparators .
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UV curing in laboratories, electronics and dental applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it compatible with my microscope? If your system uses 100W lamps such as USH-102D, OSRAM HBO 100/2, or HBO 103W/2, the USH-103D is usually compatible with the appropriate lamp holder. Check the manufacturer's part number and ensure your power supply provides 20 ± 4 V DC and 4–6 A.
What should I consider during installation? Respect the working position (anode downwards) , do not touch the quartz with your hands (use gloves), ensure adequate ventilation, and remember that it contains mercury ; manage the waste according to local regulations.
Notes and equivalencies
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Common equivalents: OSRAM HBO 103W/2.
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Known compatibilities: Ultra Cure 100 (Dentsply/Efos/LD Caulk); Leitz LH100Z, LH102Z (500-138); Olympus 8B192, BH2RFL/BHRFL, IMT2RFL; Zeiss Axiolab/Axioskop/Axioplan/Axiophot and references 3800184060, 381613. Always verify the exact model, socket, and power supply.
Project description
Ushio USH-103D short-arc mercury lamp (code 5001329): power 100 W; voltage 20 ± 4 V DC; operating current 4–6 A; nominal luminous flux 3000 lm; nominal life 300 h; diameter 10 mm; total length 90 mm; LCL 43 ± 1 mm; contact-contact distance 80 ± 1 mm; bases SFa7.5-2 (anode) and SFa9-2 (cathode); recommended working position: anode down with permissible vertical tilt +45°; type: Hg, double terminal.
