As changes to mercury lamp regulations approach, CoolLED and UK microscopy specialist GT Vision are helping laboratories replace traditional illumination systems, reduce running costs and extend the working lives of their existing microscopes.
For facilities still using mercury or metal halide lamps for fluorescence microscopy, the time to consider alternatives is running out.
The EU RoHS exemption covering certain mercury-containing lamps expires on 24 February 2027, affecting the future availability of these traditional light sources. Alongside the ongoing costs of replacement bulbs, maintenance and hazardous waste disposal, this gives labs an urgent reason to review their illumination equipment.
Relevant exemptions for certain mercury-containing lamps are approaching expiry, making now a sensible time to review existing fluorescence illumination.
It might sound daunting, but one important thing to remember is that switching to LED illumination doesn't necessarily mean replacing the microscope itself.
That's where GT Vision comes in. As an established UK supplier of microscopy equipment, with experience in installation, servicing and technical support, they're well placed to help laboratories make the transition with minimal disruption.
Practical Support for Mercury Replacement
GT Vision works with universities, research institutions, laboratories and businesses across the UK, supplying microscopes, imaging equipment and accessories, alongside the technical expertise needed to keep them working effectively.
Replacing an existing light source isn't always a straightforward exchange. Microscope compatibility, optical connections, fluorescence filters and illumination requirements all need consideration, particularly when dealing with instruments from different manufacturers.
GT Vision can help customers assess their existing equipment, identify suitable CoolLED replacements and plan the installation, whether they're upgrading a single microscope or reviewing illumination across an entire facility.
For laboratories with multiple instruments, this support can be particularly useful. Rather than replacing otherwise functional microscopes, facilities can assess each system individually and make informed decisions about which illumination upgrades are needed.
CoolLED: Over 20 Years of LED Illumination
CoolLED has spent more than two decades developing LED illumination systems for fluorescence microscopy, helping establish LED technology as an alternative to traditional mercury and metal halide lamps. Today, our systems are used across a wide range of applications, from routine fluorescence observation to advanced multichannel imaging.
The pE-300lite offers a straightforward alternative to conventional illumination, while the pE-300white provides independent channel control for applications requiring greater flexibility. For more demanding imaging requirements, the pE-400max offers advanced illumination control and rapid electronic switching.
All three remove the need for routine mercury bulb replacement, while providing precise intensity control, consistent illumination and significantly lower energy consumption.
Lower Energy Consumption. Lower Running Costs.
The potential savings are considerable. In an independent study conducted by Green Light Laboratories, CoolLED's pE-300lite consumed 93% less energy than a conventional 120 W metal halide system over a projected 25,000 operating hours. The pE-400max achieved an 83% reduction.
With no mercury bulbs to replace, laboratories can also reduce consumable costs, routine maintenance and the handling and disposal of hazardous waste.
Figures relate to the specific systems and test conditions assessed by Green Light Laboratories over a projected 25,000 operating hours. Actual savings depend on equipment configuration, usage and operating conditions.
Supporting Laboratories Across the UK
The move away from mercury illumination is particularly relevant to shared microscopy facilities, universities and research centres operating multiple instruments, often from different manufacturers and of varying ages. Assessing compatibility, choosing replacements and coordinating installation around existing laboratory work all require planning.
By combining CoolLED's illumination technology with GT Vision's microscopy expertise and support services, laboratories can approach these upgrades with a clearer understanding of their options.
An Extra Reason to Make the Switch
To help with the initial investment, GT Vision is offering 10% off qualifying CoolLED systems purchased to replace existing mercury or metal halide illumination.
Quote discount code GTCOOL10 when contacting GT Vision about your upgrade.
It's an opportunity for laboratories to address the changing regulatory situation while reviewing the ongoing costs and performance of their existing equipment.
Keep the Microscope. Change the Light Source.
A microscope that's still performing well shouldn't need replacing just because its illumination technology is outdated. For many instruments, upgrading to LED offers a practical way to extend their working life, reduce running costs and gain greater control over fluorescence illumination.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Whether you're upgrading a single microscope or reviewing illumination across an entire facility, CoolLED and GT Vision can help you understand your options.
Contact GT Vision to discuss your existing microscopes, find a suitable CoolLED replacement and ask about their 10% mercury replacement offer using code GTCOOL10.
