Fluorescent tubes come in a variety of sizes. Identification of the correctly sized tube will require reference to the code indicating the dimensions. As an example, the T of code T8 refers to the tubed shape, with the 8 referring to the size or diameter. The simplest way to identify the correct size is to read the label situated close to the base of the tube. If you can&#;t read this information, then a measurement should be taken of the tube diameter. The corresponding measurement should be taken in eighths of an inch. The T8 tube has a one-inch (8/8) diameter, while the T5 tube has a 5/8 diameter.
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Both the colour temperature and colour rendering index will have a bearing on the appropriate choice of fluorescent tubing. The colour temperature corresponds with the warmth of the light. Warmer tones will have a yellowish appearance, while cooler shades will be relatively bright.
Common varieties of colour temperature include:
The colour rendering index indicates the ease with which colours can be distinguished on the application of different light sources. A bulb with around 80 CRI may be suitable for common domestic applications. However, you should ensure the fitting of a bulb with a CRI of 90 or more given the need for high levels of light.
There will be some variation in the amount of lumens generated by fluorescent bulbs given the type and efficacy of the lamp. However, the majority of fluorescent bulbs generate between 45 and 100 lumens per watt. A 20-watt tube may then be expected to generate between 90 and 100 lumens. The wattage and lumen levels have a direct bearing on running costs.
There is considerable variation in the pricing of fluorescent light bulbs. However, as a general rule, you can expect to pay under £8 per bulb.
The main difference between the fluorescent tube and bulb is in the size. The fluorescent bulb has a distinctive shape and requires special technology for attachment to a standard light socket. It is also common for fluorescent tubing to have a ballast connected with the light bulb. Each offers a good level of energy efficiency.
Fluorescent tubes fall under the classification of hazardous waste due to their mercury content. Care should be taken during the disposal process as part of your commitment to environmental and legal compliance. It will be important to switch off the power source before detaching a fluorescent tube. The tube may then be wrapped in paper or towelling to prevent breakage. The tubing can then be transferred to recycling or hazardous waste disposal in accordance with the legal requirements.
Ideally, there will be legible coding on the fluorescent tube indicating the key characteristics. As an example, you might see the code F32T8. The F in this instance will indicate the fluorescence. The 32 corresponds to the number of watts or length in inches. The T is specific to the tubular shaping. Finally, the 8 corresponds to the diameter in eighths of an inch (this may be represented in millimetres rounded to the nearest millimetre).
It is important to note that some varieties of fluorescent lighting do not feature starters. However, those that do typically have a starter positioned close to the tube socket. The starter will provide voltage in addition to that supplied by the mains. Operating in combination with the choke, this will initiate the ionised path through the tube. The wattage rating of the starter should correspond with that of the fluorescent tube for reliability and longevity.
T8 fluorescent tubing is the ideal option if you want to see a good level of detail. The high levels of colour rendering allow property areas and items to be shown to full effect. These tubes have a life expectancy of up to 15,000 and require a relatively low level of maintenance.
There aren&#;t any safety concerns associated with the replacement of the T12 fluorescent bulb with a T8. However, you should be aware that the installation of a T8 will result in a shortened lifespan due to the high levels of current running through the tube. It might be necessary to install a different form of ballasting or fixture for operation of the T8 bulb. You may also consider the installation of long tube LED lighting.
Choosing the appropriate light fixtures for home, property, or construction projects is a primary concern for most people. If you are in a similar situation, you already know that there are two primary concerns that you must factor. The light fixtures should be energy efficient but not too expensive upfront.
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Most energy-efficient lighting products are designed with this trade-off in mind. Cheap fixtures tend to be less energy efficient than their more expensive counterparts. Regardless of the size or nature of your project, sorting out a list of lighting options can be a time-consuming and mind-numbing process.
You need to keep in mind that there are three main varieties of interior lighting products based on different illumination modes of operation: fluorescent tubes, high-intensity discharge (HUD) lambs, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). While any lighting store attendant can present a list of factors to be considered, here are some issues that go beyond the cost-efficiency debate.
Every lighting fixture produces some heat during use. HIDs, which are usually found in industrial facilities, are the worst offenders because they can raise the surrounding heat up to 350 degrees. On the other hand, fluorescent lamps produce about 150 degrees with LED lights being the coolest at about 100 degrees. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lighting could save the country about 50% of all its energy costs in the future.
Depending on your settings, heat can be a significant issue to consider. Internal heat load can make it difficult or impossible to have offices within industrial facilities. If you make a mistake of buying lighting fixtures that dissipate much heat, you might find yourself buying expensive cooling refrigerants to maintain operations.
On the other hand, metal halide lamps are excellent for interior lighting in buildings located in cold climates. The heat may make it more comfortable to work, improving the overall productivity. A modern lighting store will stock up on different lighting fixtures.
The ease and frequency of maintenance should be a top concern whenever you are buying a lighting fixture.
Installations that rarely break down demand less manpower and equipment to keep running efficiently. If the purchase is meant for a large facility, this consideration is even more critical. You may discover that fixing over 300 fluorescent lamps is a full-time job for the maintenance crew.
If the main concern is the ease of maintenance, it is best to obtain LED fixtures. These lighting products are quite expensive. However, their lighting mechanism is rated at 100,000 to 150,000 hours. Comparatively, metal halide bulbs have the poorest rating at about 15,000 hours.
For industrial settings, try to strike a balance between energy savings and maintenance costs. Home lighting may not be so demanding in terms of maintenance since you only have a few lights. You might get a more realistic estimate of the amount you need to spend upfront in a lighting store.
It is difficult to express productivity in dollars, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Generally, a poorly lit environment will lead to faulty workmanship and make the employees dreary. According to the Illuminating Society, most industrial applications need about 20 to 50-foot candles for optimum work.
Metal halide lighting fixtures lose about 50% of their brightness within two years. On the other hand, LEDs will only dim up to 70% after 17 years. You need to think about the project you are working on when making the final purchase decision? Do you expect the facility to be around in a few months, years, or decades?
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of modern productivity. Choosing the right fixtures in a lighting store is a critical decision whether you are making home replacements or working on a construction project. You need to think about the level of productivity, maintenance needed, and the heat load of the fixture.
Premier Lighting offers a huge selection of lighting solutions and guides its clients in making the best lighting decisions. You can learn more about different fixtures for indoor and outdoor lighting by calling us today.
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