UV-C systems from BÄRO ensure air hygiene at every scale

UV-C disinfection modules like AirStream from BÄRO can be integrated into existing systems absolutely easily and with minimal maintenance. (Photo: BÄRO)

AirCom Pro is easy to install indoors and is used similarly to a light fixture. (Photo: OFFICE)

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the topic of indoor air hygiene has come into the public eye. UV-C air disinfection can help reduce the risk of airborne infections. Developed, manufactured, and distributed for over 25 years, BÄRO Clean Air Technologies produces UV-C-based air purification systems for air and surface disinfection.

As one of the leading European manufacturers, BÄRO Clean Air Technologies implements comprehensive complete solutions across various sectors and industries. In addition to the proven AirStream devices for integration into stationary ventilation systems (HVAC), mobile units and ceiling-mounted, standalone UV-C devices have been added in response to the challenges of the pandemic, such as AirCom and AirCom Pro.

This is how air hygiene with UV-C works

UV-C light with a wavelength of 254 nm is a proven and highly effective weapon against pathogens in indoor air. It destroys the genetic material of viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms, rendering them harmless. In BÄRO's UV-C devices, contaminated air is continuously disinfected in a sealed UV-C chamber – ozone-free, without chemical additives, and without risk to humans. Depending on the application, this is done in a module integrated into an HVAC system like AirStream. Alternatively, UV-C devices can be placed directly in the room: mobile, like AirCom, or similarly to a ceiling light, permanently installed, like AirCom Pro. This provides builders and building operators with simple yet effective solutions, even in urgent situations.

AirStream: integrated into the ventilation system

Larger buildings typically have HVAC systems, which during the COVID-19 pandemic were often shut down or switched to energy-intensive supply air operation to prevent the spread of viruses via ventilation. As a solution, BÄRO offers the UV-C disinfection module AirStream for integration into HVAC systems, which has long been standard in sensitive industries such as the food industry. For optimal air hygiene, the UV-C module is dimensioned appropriately by the manufacturer together with specialist planners. Existing systems can also be retrofitted considering the available space. Maintenance costs are lower compared to HEPA filter systems, as regular filter replacement and disposal are eliminated. BÄRO systems comply with the funding guidelines of BAFA for upgrading to a hygiene level in HVAC systems.

AirCom Pro: effective and straightforward like a light fixture

The compact AirCom Pro UV-C device is easy to install indoors and functions similarly to a light fixture. Built-in fans continuously draw contaminated aerosols in, and air outlets at the bottom return the disinfected air to the room. Such permanently installed UV-C devices are especially suitable for zones where people gather, such as waiting areas, seminar rooms, or classrooms. Compared to filter systems, UV-C devices operate particularly quietly, making them highly acceptable in spaces where focused work takes place. With active, directed airflow, AirCom Pro efficiently provides additional safety in indoor environments where people live and work. Inside the fully sealed UV-C chamber, which prevents any direct contact of UV-C radiation with humans, a minimal dose of 70 J/m² or 120 J/m² is applied. The devices thus operate within the highest performance classes required.

AirCom C: the ceiling-integrated solution

As a new feature, BÄRO offers a UV-C device suitable for retrofitting into suspended ceilings. The cubic housing, approximately 370mm deep, has a square, flat cover compatible with the 625mm ceiling grid. The developers paid special attention to airflow management: The design of the inlet and outlet openings utilizes the Venturi effect to reduce short-circuiting air flows and thus effectively reduce the concentration of infectious pathogens throughout the room. The airflow rate of up to 500 m³/h is sufficient for large rooms, and at an airflow setting of 300 m³/h, the device produces only about 35 dB of noise, making it suitable for use in quiet environments.