Fluorescent lamps are low pressure gas discharge lamps. They can be of various shapes: straight tubular, curly and compact (CFL). Fluorescent lamps are much more complex in design than lamps with , and they have many more malfunctions. The table below shows typical faults and how to resolve them.
Tubular lamps have two-pin socket types, differing in the distance between the pins: G-13 (distance - 13 mm) for lamps with a diameter of 40 mm and 26 mm and G-5 (distance - 5 mm) for lamps with a diameter of 16 mm.
The peculiarity of the compact device is that the tube is made of a special shape to reduce the length of the lamp. Many low-wattage compact fluorescent lamps (up to 20 W) are designed to replace incandescent lamps and are designed so that they can be screwed into a threaded socket directly or through an adapter. Compact fluorescent lamps can come in different shapes, can be equipped with electronic ballasts (ECG) and can be of different lengths.
Fluorescent lamps require a special device for operation - a ballast (choke). Most foreign lamps can work with both conventional (with a choke) and electronic ballasts (EPG). But some of them are intended only for one type of ballast.
Table 1. Typical faults lamps with fluorescent lamps.
Lamps with electronic ballasts have the following advantages: the lamp does not flicker, lights up better, does not make noise (noise from the throttle), is lighter in weight, saves energy (power losses in electronic ballasts are much lower than in ballasts).
Advantages: compared to incandescent lamps, they are more economical and durable, and have good light transmission. The service life is up to 10,000 hours for imported lamps and up to 5000-8000 hours for domestic ones. Convenient to use where the light is on for many hours.
Disadvantages: at temperatures below 5 degrees they are difficult to light and may burn more dimly.
By changing the types of phosphor, you can change the color characteristics of the lamps. The letters included in the names of the types of such lamps mean: L - fluorescent, B - white, TB - warm white, D - daylight, C - with improved color rendering. The numbers 18, 20, 36, 40, 65, 80 indicate the rated power in watts. For example, LDTs-18 is a fluorescent lamp, daytime, with improved color rendering, with a power of 18 W.
Table 2. Typical malfunctions of lamps with fluorescent lamps.
A lamp with fluorescent lamps works as follows. The tubular lamp is filled with argon and mercury vapor. A starter is needed to start the lamp; you need to warm up the electrodes for a short time. The current flowing through the throttle and starter increases significantly, heating the starter bimetallic plate. The lamp electrodes warm up, the starter contact opens, the current in the circuit decreases, and a short-term high voltage is formed at the inductor. Its accumulated energy is enough to break through the gas in the lamp bulb. Next, the current flows through the inductor and the lamp, with 110 Volts falling on the inductor and 110 Volts on the lamp. Mercury vapor, using a phosphor, creates a glow that is perceived by the human eye.
The throttle consumes almost no energy. The energy it takes during magnetization is almost completely returned when demagnetizing, thereby loading the wires uselessly. To relieve the network, capacitor C is used. Energy exchange occurs not between the network and the inductor, but between the inductor and the capacitor. The presence of a capacitor increases the efficiency of the lamp; without it, the lamp efficiency is 50-60%, with capacitor C - 95%. The capacitor, which is connected in parallel with the starter, is used to protect against radio interference.
A malfunction of a fluorescent lamp may consist in a breakdown of the electrical contact in the lamp circuit or in the failure of one of the lamp elements. The reliability of the contacts is checked by visual inspection and testing by a tester.
The performance of the lamp or ballasts is checked by sequentially replacing all elements with known good ones.
Let's consider the design of a lamp for T8 tubular fluorescent lamps, G13 base , this is one of the most common types of fluorescent lamps that you have probably come across in everyday life.
As an example, Let's take a surface-mounted fluorescent lamp 2x36 W "Iceberg" with degree of protection ip65.
The device of a fluorescent lamp
Structurally, the fluorescent lamp consists of:
1. Plastic case.
Which covers and protects all elements electrical diagram, and also carries fastening elements both for mounting the lamp on a wall or ceiling, and for assembling all components of the lighting device into a single whole.
2. Metal mounting panel - base.
It contains all the electronic components necessary for the operation of the lamp, as well as fittings for installing fluorescent lamps.
3. Translucent diffuser.
Which creates lighting that is more comfortable for our vision, as it evenly distributes the luminous flux of fluorescent lamps.
In addition to these main components that make up the lamp, the delivery set usually contains:
- fasteners for installing a fluorescent lamp on walls or ceilings.
- Clamps connecting the translucent diffuser to the body. Allowing fairly easy access to the insides of the lamp, primarily to the lamps, for replacing them.
- Plugs - membranes. These close unused input holes into the luminaire, and also seal the place where the power cable enters.
Pay attention! Fluorescent lamps are most often not included in the delivery package of the lamp and must be purchased separately.
The design of the electrical part of a fluorescent lamp
To understand the design of the electrical components included in the circuit of a fluorescent lamp, you need to understand operating principle of fluorescent lamps.
Usually, fluorescent lamp is a tube filled with an inert gas containing mercury vapor. The inner surface of the lamp is coated with a special substance - phosphor. Electrodes are installed along the edges of the tube, between which, when the electricity is turned on, an arc discharge is formed, and when passing electric current Inside the lamp, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is generated, which affects the phosphor, causing it to glow.
As you understand, with this complex principle actions, the fluorescent lamp will not be able to fully operate when simple connection To electrical network. We will consider the reasons for this in more detail in one of the following materials, entirely devoted to fluorescent lamps.
Now it is worth noting one thing: for the full operation of fluorescent lamps in lighting fixtures, special ballasts (ballasts) are used. The most common are electromagnetic ballasts/ballasts (EMBG) and electronic ballasts/ballasts (ECG).
In our example, the Iceberg fluorescent lamp, an electronic ballast is used, which is installed on the mounting panel - the base. All the necessary wires are also connected to the ballast. On one side of the ballast there are wires leading to the lamp connection sockets, on the other side to the terminals to which the power cable is connected. There is a connection diagram on the ballast, according to which you can restore the connection at any time, or replace a faulty ballast, by accurately connecting all the wires to the appropriate terminals.
We have already described the general connection diagram for fluorescent lamps, which, of course, is completely suitable for this Iceberg 2x36W lighting fixture, in our article “Connection diagram for a fluorescent lamp.”
Now, in general outline Having become familiar with the structure of a fluorescent lamp, you can proceed to its installation. In the following material, “Installing a fluorescent lamp,” we describe in detail the entire process of assembling and installing a lamp with fluorescent lamps. For a better understanding of the design of a fluorescent lamp, be sure to read this article. All the components of the lamp, their interaction and much more are shown there in some detail.
Any questions that you have after reading the material, ask in the comments to the article, we will try to help!
The importance of lighting in residential areas cannot be overestimated.
Fluorescent lighting was previously used only in industrial enterprises, offices, and shops. This is due to the size, cool blue glow, flickering and unpleasant buzzing.
But recently there have been devices of compact sizes, various color range, original design, as they found their rightful place in the loft style (see).
Design and operating principle
The main feature and advantage of fluorescent lamps is the use of fluorescent lamps. They are inserted using special lamp holders (sockets). The connection of cartridges with wires is made of bronze clamps.
Fluorescent lamps are glass tubes with sealed ends at both ends. The tube is filled with argon gas. The walls of the tube are covered with a layer of phosphor. In addition to argon, there is mercury inside the tube.
When power is applied between the electrodes at opposite ends of the tube, an arc occurs. The electrical discharge causes a glow in ultraviolet light. This radiation is absorbed by the phosphor and converted into a visible glow perceived by the human eye.
The color of the glow depends on the composition of the phosphor.
The main elements are the body, reflector and diffuser (or grille). The grille can be mirrored, matte or white. Lamps are produced with open light sources and with shades.
But one lamp and housing are not enough. For operation, special ballasts are required. Previously, lamps were equipped with electromagnetic ballasts (choke), which during operation made an unpleasant sound and had large dimensions.
Modern devices do not have such a disadvantage. They are equipped with electronic ballasts (ballasts).
ballasts with digital control implements the most original lighting projects, allowing them to be used in an energy-saving “smart home” system.
Variety of species
Fluorescent lamps are used as ceiling and wall lighting. are divided into overhead, built-in and suspended. Overheads are attached to the ceiling. can be used for suspended ceilings. Suspended ones are used for local lighting.
Devices can be one-, two-lamp, etc. They use linear fluorescent lamps. The most widespread are linear devices with tubes:
- T4 (with a diameter of 12.7 mm),
- T5 (with a diameter of 15.9 mm),
- T8 (with a diameter of 25.4 mm).
T4 and T5 tubes have a G5 base, T8 tubes have a G13 base. The numbers on the bases indicate the distance between the pins in millimeters. Length depends on power for all types and manufacturers.
| 15W | 18-20 W | 30W | 36W | 58W | 70W |
| 450mm | 600mm | 900mm | 1200mm | 1500mm | 1500mm |
Depending on the diffuser, devices can be of direct, directional, diffused and reflected light.
Divided by level of protection from moisture and dust. The level of protection is classified according to the IP system. This is the Ingress Protection code system. The higher the IP, the higher the moisture and dust protection.
The spectrum of the luminous flux depends on the temperature of the glow. As color temperature increases, the spectrum of light changes from red to blue.
Scope of application
The main sources of lighting in the house are ceiling lamps. For low ceilings in storage rooms, in corridors, and in bathrooms, it is better to use overhead lighting fixtures, and for rooms with high ceilings, recessed ones are suitable.
Fluorescent lamps are installed around the perimeter of the room in order to create hidden lighting. For this, a modular system is used.
Multi-level ceiling, awnings, cornices in the rooms. All this only looks good with the right lighting. They are used, in combination with, in kitchen sets to illuminate niches and tables. Devices with miniature lamps are used in furniture for local lighting. Wall mounts are used for paintings and panels.
Linear luminaires special purpose used for plants and aquariums.
Their main difference is the red and blue regions of the emission spectrum. This light is very beneficial for plants. It compensates for the lack of sunlight and improves photobiological processes in plants.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of fluorescent lamps is energy savings. Their efficiency is 5 times higher than that of devices with incandescent lamps, but is inferior in efficiency.
The service life varies from 5 to 12 thousand hours. This creates additional convenience when used in hard-to-reach places.
Lamps emit light over the entire surface. A variety of colors of light output allows you to choose the desired color.
The use of electronic ballasts instead of traditional electromagnetic ones improves the characteristics of fluorescent lamps - eliminates unpleasant hum and reduces flicker.
The main disadvantage is the presence of mercury. They require careful handling.
Another disadvantage is the dependence on external temperature. At too low and high temperatures, the luminous flux decreases. But for residential premises this is not so true. But sensitivity to frequent switching on and off creates inconvenience.
Possible malfunctions and ways to eliminate them
Fluorescent lamps have a reliable design. Malfunctions are primarily associated with faulty lamps, ballasts or electrical wiring. The lamp holder (socket) may also fail. But this happens extremely rarely.
Let's consider the problems that you may encounter during operation:
- Dull orange glow at the ends. The reason is air getting into the tube. It cannot be eliminated - the lamp needs to be replaced.
- The device lights up, but then goes dark and goes out. The reason is a malfunction of the ballast - replacement is required.
- It goes out periodically, then lights up on its own. The reason is a faulty starter or lamp.
- The device flashes, there is a glow from one end of the tube. Reason – short circuit in the socket or wiring.
- When turned on, the ends of the tube turn black. The reason is a mismatch between the device voltage and the mains voltage or a malfunction of the ballast resistance. If the voltage is OK, replace the ballast resistor.
- Doesn't turn on. The reason is a broken wire or electrodes in the lamp, a malfunction of the starter, or problems with the supply voltage.
Manufacturers and models
When choosing fluorescent lamps, the question arises: which manufacturer’s products should you give preference to? There is a huge selection on the market: from well-known brands to cheap Chinese fakes.
SLV
One of the leaders in the European market is the German company SLV. The dealer network is spread all over the world. Innovative technologies, attractive price, design. All this makes SLV products attractive to buyers.
| SLV 160831 Kuno suspended | SLV 160832 Kuno suspended | SLV 160773 Kuno ceiling |
 |  |  |
| Lamp material | ||
| Aluminum + white plastic | Aluminum + silver plastic | Aluminum + white plastic |
| Reinforcement material | ||
| Aluminum white | Aluminum silver | Aluminum white |
| Lamp power | ||
| 2x35W | 2x35W | 2x54W |
| Base type | ||
| 2xG5 | 2xG5 | 2xG5 |
| Number of lamps | ||
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Size | ||
| L – 1490mm, H – 30mm, B – 135mm, 2.5 kg | L – 1490mm, H – 30mm, B – 135mm, 2.5 kg | |
Hanging models of the Kuno series are made in a modern style. Adjustable suspension up to one and a half meters. The lamp is supplied without a base. The base with Tron cable clamp and lamps must be ordered separately.
Novotech
Another well-known brand is the Hungarian company Novotech. The company uses modern lighting technology trends in its developments. Particular attention is paid to energy-saving fluorescent and.
 |  |  |
| Lamp material | ||
| Transparent polycarbonate | Transparent polycarbonate | Transparent polycarbonate |
| Reinforcement material | ||
| Aluminum white | Aluminum white | Aluminum white |
| Lamp power | ||
| 1x18W | 1x30W | 1x13W |
| Base type | ||
| G13 | G13 | G13 |
| Number of lamps | ||
| 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Size | ||
| L – 675mm, H – 65mm, B – 35mm, 0.065 kg | L – 950mm, H – 70mm, B – 48mm, 0.065 kg | L – 571mm, H – 42mm, B – 22mm, 0.065 kg |
The table shows the models of the SIDE series. These are closed devices with a switch. Designed for lighting furniture (kitchen tables).
OMS
Lamps from the Slovak manufacturer OMS are widely used in Europe. The factory covers all market segments - from the most economical to the premium class thanks to the modern equipment of production lines.
| FF02-12 | FF02-25 | FF02-26 |
 |  |  |
| Lamp material | ||
| Opal resin with separator | Matte polymer | Polymer with anti-glare grille |
| Reinforcement material | ||
| Aluminum gray | Aluminum gray | Aluminum gray |
| Lamp power | ||
| 2x35W | 1x35W | 1x35W |
| Base type | ||
| G5 | G5 | G5 |
| Number of lamps | ||
| 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Size | ||
| L – 1510mm, H – 65mm, B – 260mm | L – 1480mm, H – 75mm, B – 100mm | |
Hanging models from OMS will satisfy the most demanding customer.
Almost all European lighting manufacturers produce fluorescent lamps. Cost-effectiveness, durability, varied light spectrum allow you to choose models for any room design.
Currently, lamps with fluorescent lamps are widespread. They are used not only for domestic needs, but also for industrial ones. The most commonly used sources are ceiling lamps with 4x18 fluorescent lamps. Let's look further at what these devices are and how they work.
Operating principle
The operation of luminaires using fluorescent lamps is based on the principle of operation of the latter. It consists in the fact that the phosphor layer that covers the inner surface of the flask is treated with ultraviolet rays, resulting in a glow.
In turn, the current, passing through the gas filling of the lamp, which serves as a transmitting medium for electrode pulses to generate an arc, creates ultraviolet rays.
Depending on the composition of the phosphor layer applied to the surface and the temperature, the produced stream will be of different colors. This imposes certain restrictions on the use of lamps:
- lamps that produce a bluish color of about three thousand Kelvin) - daylight - are used in small rooms and in tabletop light sources, most often these are ceiling lamps with 4x18 fluorescent lamps;
- lamps emitting warm tones (six thousand Kelvin, yellow spectrum) - used in living rooms and small offices;
- lamps with intermediate characteristics of the previous two groups.
Advantages of fluorescent lamps
The main advantages of lamps used in 4x18 fluorescent lamps are:
- protective design guarantees safe use;
- electronic ballasts (EPG) allow the lamp to operate silently;
- compact sizes fit any design solution;
- in comparison with the design of other lamps, they have a service life approximately twelve times longer;
- the light output of such lamps, including in the 4x18 ceiling lamp, exceeds the corresponding parameter of incandescent lamps by almost five times;
- it is possible to select the desired shade of light output;
- Energy savings are almost three times compared to conventional lamps.
Disadvantages of fluorescent lamps
Like any device, such light sources have not only advantages, but also disadvantages.
The disadvantages of this are:
- restriction on use - it is prohibited to use for lighting in supermarkets (to avoid distortion appearance products) and in workshops with equipment with rotating parts (a stroboscopic effect may occur);
- sensitivity to frequent switching on and off - phase-frequency voltage fluctuations damage lamps;
- ceiling lamps with 4x18 fluorescent lamps, like other similar ones, cannot be placed in niches of suspended ceilings - at temperatures above sixty degrees Celsius they deform;
- harmful effects on humans - the flask contains mercury in the amount of one gram, this also causes difficulties in
Classification of luminaires and lamps
Luminaires with fluorescent lamps differ in the installation method.
Their classification is as follows:
- suspended - mounted on high ceilings (more than two and a half meters) on suspensions;
- built-in - installation of such systems is carried out simultaneously with the ceiling in its frame using clamps;
- wall-mounted - fixed on cables or a wall; reflectors can be used in the design to illuminate a specific area;
- tabletop - used as local lighting;
- overhead - installed on plasterboard or type-setting ceilings;
- raster - used for lighting public places, for example - ceiling lamps with 4x18 Armstrong fluorescent lamps.
Fluorescent lamps are divided into three types:
- electromagnetic - flicker, hum characteristically and unevenly distribute the flow of light;
- lamps with electronic ballasts - provide better quality light, are stable in operation, lack light fluctuations and noise, and have a longer working life than the previous ones;
- compact - have a built-in electric ballast, are compatible with conventional lamp sockets, and provide diffused daylight.
Four-lamp lamps
Surface-mounted ceiling lamps with 4x18 fluorescent lamps, which are installed mainly in wet rooms, are widely used, as they have appropriate protection. They are also used to illuminate corridors and office areas. Lamps for such lamps are available with power ratings of eighteen and thirty-six watts, in various colors and designs.
As a rule, electronic ballasts are installed in such devices. They are mounted by embedding or hanging and provide a total of seventy-two watts of power.
Due to the fact that mirror grilles are built into the design of such lamps, these devices evenly distribute the light flux to any corner of the room.
Fluorescent ceiling lamps are used for office and public buildings, in industry and for high-quality lighting of common areas in multi-apartment areas. These are economical systems in the form of built-in and surface-mounted luminaires, distinguished by power level, color temperature and the number of lamps used. Among the most popular LPOs are 2x36, 2x18; for public buildings, 4x18 are usually used, which can be used with suspended ceilings.
The peculiarity of fluorescent lamps is their bright luminous flux, sufficient power and the ability to save up to approximately 80% of electricity compared to conventional incandescent lamps. In addition, compact models can be equipped with E14 and E27 sockets, which allows you to replace lighting sources without replacing the entire lamp.
In this article:
Fluorescent lamps - all the pros and cons
Fluorescent ceiling lights can be one-, two-, or four-lamp. They are the most profitable and economical, optimally suitable for public spaces. At the same time, the number of lamps for one lighting fixture largely determines the purpose of the lamp. Thus, two-lamp lamps are usually used for corridors and for lighting workplaces, while four-lamp 4x18 lamps are an ideal option for large spaces and rooms.
But, like any equipment, such systems have their advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include:
- ceiling lamps have good light output, a power of 20 W corresponds to 100 W for a conventional incandescent lamp;
- higher efficiency level;
- the spectrum is as close as possible to natural;
- you can choose the desired shade using a light device with neutral, warm or cold light;
- lighting fixtures create bright, diffused lighting that is pleasing to the eye;
- service life is about 20 thousand hours versus 1 thousand for incandescent lamps.
But when choosing this lighting option, you must remember that it is not recommended to use it with motion sensors and automatic switches. This is due to the fact that frequent switching on/off reduces the life of the lamp and significantly reduces its use.
The disadvantages of this type of lighting include:
- Light sources contain mercury, although its level is less than 1 gram for each product, but this still creates a certain health hazard if the bulb is damaged;
- special disposal conditions are required;
- During operation there is flicker, which negatively affects mental health and vision, therefore similar systems used for offices and public buildings;
- during work, noise is heard that can create discomfort, this does not matter for workplaces, shopping centers or offices, but for residential premises it is critical;
- the equipment requires the use of expensive electronic ballasts or chokes for starting, which creates a lot of noise;
- During prolonged use, the device's starter gives a false start - a flash appears before ignition.
Fluorescent ceiling lights are optimal choice for office and public buildings. They are easy to use, practical, and have a longer service life than incandescent lamps. But during operation, the equipment makes noise, which does not allow it to be fully used for residential premises.
A special feature of such ceiling lamps is a bright, close to natural luminous flux. When choosing lamps for the office, it is recommended to give preference to systems at 400 Lux with a temperature of 6000 K, for corridors and small spaces - from 75 Lux with a temperature of 3000 K.
Comparative characteristics LED lamps and ceiling models with fluorescent standard lamps 4x18:
| Characteristics | LVO 4x18 | DVO 600x600 (LED) |
| Power, W | 71,5 | 49 |
| Diffuser type | Opal | Opal |
| Luminous flux level, Lm | 3500 | 4500 |
| Glow, K | 4000 | 4000 |
| Power factor | 0,92 | 0,95 |
| Ripple, % | 3 | Up to 1 |
| Power, V | 198-264 | 198-264 |
| Entering operating mode | 1 second | 0.1 seconds |
| Operational terms | 12 thousand hours (for some models 20 thousand hours) | Up to 60 thousand hours |
| Weight | Up to 4kg | Up to 3.8 kg |
Color options
For fluorescent chandeliers, the following color rendering markings are used, according to GOST 6825-91:
- white light - LB;
- daylight - LD;
- cool white shade - LCB;
- natural shade - LE;
- warm white - LTB.
In addition, models with an improved phosphor layer are produced, marked “C” and “TsTs”, multi-colored models (LG, LV, LZ and others) and ultraviolet LUV, special blue color LSR. The temperature index, color rendering index and flow temperature are also indicated on the packaging.
Scope of application of ceiling fluorescent lamps
The purpose of fluorescent lamps is quite wide. Most often these are industrial models and special office lamps with diffusers. Their shape can be square, which allows the use of lighting systems for suspended ceilings. For small rooms, rectangular models with one and two lamps can be used.
For indoor pools and rooms with high humidity levels, special waterproof models are used. Lighting devices protected from dust and dirt can be used for lobbies and even outdoors, for example, for exit groups. Special performance characteristics models are indispensable for construction sites.
Ultraviolet bactericidal lamps are used for medical institutions, kindergartens, canteens and restaurant kitchens. For offices, powerful and bright lamps with a white neutral and cold light flux with shades in the form of squares are best suited.
Fluorescent lamps are a modern and reliable solution for offices and industry. Economical, very easy to use and practical lighting devices that reduce energy consumption and improve the ergonomics of the room.
