Design And Simulation Of A UV-C Ultraviolet Light Lamp For Water Disinfection

Abstract

This research aims to design and simulate a water disinfection system based on ultraviolet type C (UV-C) light, focused on improving access to safe water in rural communities with limited infrastructure, such as “El Desierto” in Palmira parish, Guamote canton. The study is applied in nature, with a quantitative approach and a quasi-experimental design comparing before and after scenarios without direct intervention. A theoretical sample of 30 households using untreated water sources was intentionally selected. The analysis was based on scientific literature and case studies in similar contexts. The simulation, conducted using MATLAB, incorporated parameters such as flow rate, turbidity, exposure time, and germicidal dose. A UV-C lamp system with three 40W tubes was simulated, achieving a dose >40 mJ/cm², with an estimated 99.99% reduction of E. coli and 99% of enteric viruses. The system showed low energy consumption (0.72 kWh/day) and a treated flow rate of 1 L/s. Although not implemented in the field, simulated ethical and educational strategies were included. The results suggest that the system is feasible, replicable, and has strong potential for improving rural public health.