What Are the Different Tanning Bed Parts?

Sunlight induces the production of melanin, a substance that makes the skin darker. Tanning beds seek to simulate this effect with an advanced ultraviolet lighting system. This system consists of fluorescent lamps and bulbs energized by ballasts. The lighting fixtures are placed along two long structures joined at one end: the canopy and the bench. Additional tanning bed parts include fans, timers, and protective devices like filters and acrylics.

Tanning beds are devices designed to provide individuals with a tan, or a darkening of the skin. They accomplish this task via ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure achieved through several tanning bed parts. Use of these devices typically requires that an individual lie down on the elongated surface of the tanning bed before placing a UV-emitting cover over their bodies. Users may purchase a tanning bed for home use or visit one of the numerous specialty outlets that offer tanning services.

The main feature of a tanning bed is its lighting system. Ultraviolet light exposure occurs through the placement of fluorescent lamps and tanning bed bulbs along the bed’s inner surfaces. When activated, these lighting fixtures use particles known as phosphors to radiate various degrees of ultraviolet light for individual skin types. For tanning beds that are capable of producing higher amounts of UV light, tanning bed parts called filter glasses may be installed to temper skin contact with some of the more intense elements of the UV exposure.

Tanning bed lamps are powered by systems known as ballasts. These systems consist of inductors that store electrical currents. Ballasts regulate these currents and use them along with a lamp starter to provide the lamps with UV-emitting capabilities.

Comfort and practicality are other important considerations in tanning bed parts and design. The surface on which the individual lies is called a bench, and this structure may be padded for extra comfort. In turn, the canopy represents the movable structure that rests over the bench and encloses the individual within the tanning bed. This particular part is made movable by tanning bed shocks, or specialized gas springs. Both of these structures contain protective surfaces called acrylics, and since temperatures inside the tanning bed can get uncomfortably hot, many beds also offer fans to offset these effects.

In addition, timers are affixed to the beds, and they keep an individual apprised of how long a tanning session has lasted. These particular tanning bed parts are useful because most tanning beds have a recommended maximum tanning time span. Overexposure could cause sunburns or potentially present more long-term health risks.