Unravelling the True Science behind Fluorescent Lights
Humanity has always needed energy. Although the sun is the ultimate energy source and light, the real issue was how to illuminate indoor areas. At this point, electricity and light enter the story. Electricity plays a significant role in modern life by powering homes and industrial activities. Its main application is lighting, the key source of brightening homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Fluorescent lights are the typical choice for brightness all around the world.
Keep reading to delve into the particulars of fluorescent lights, including their invention, mechanism and advantages.
What are Fluorescent Lights?
Fluorescent light uses lighting technology that involves chemical reactions. The chemical reaction occurs inside the glass tube through the interaction of gases and mercury vapours, generating invisible UV Light. The UV lights irradiate the phosphorous power, which coats the inner wall of the tube, thereby radiating fluorescent light. The phenomena of gas discharge are used to produce light in fluorescent lights, unlike incandescent bulbs, which rely on the heating of the filament to give light.
Who invented the Fluorescent Lights?
The history of fluorescent lights goes back to the early 20th century and involves the work of many scientists and researchers. However, the major breakthrough was given by an American engineer named Peter Cooper Hewitt in 1921. Hewitt invented the mercury-vapor lamp, which is characterized as the early form of the gas discharge lamp. The mechanism of this lamp was based on the ionization of the mercury vapor. With efficient design and phosphorous incorporation, the first practical fluorescent lamp was launched by General Electric and George Inman in 1938.
What type of mechanism is used in Fluorescent Lights?
Light is produced in fluorescent bulbs/tubes by gas discharge. The mercury vapor inside the glass tube is ionized, when electric current travels through the lamp’s electrodes. Ultraviolet light is produced when the mercury atoms return to their lower energy state. In order to produce visible light, the UV lights collide with the phosphorous coating. That is the main reason behind the efficiency and brightness of fluorescent lights. The phosphorous coating can be accustomed to yield various color temperatures, giving a wide range of alternatives from cool to warm tone light. There is something known as ballast that enhances the reliability of fluorescent lights.
Need to know what a ballast is? No problem!
A ballast is an electrical device that controls the electric current to the fluorescent light and delivers adequate power to start the lamp. It is unique because the light would capture too much current without a ballast, and its chances of burning out or not working would increase immensely.
Moreover, the ballast also inhibits light flickering and enhances the lamp’s lifespan.
What are the significant components of Fluorescent Lights?
Fluorescent light contains five main parts essential to its light production.
- Glass Tube: It is coated with phosphorous and contains mercury vapor.
- Electrodes: When current is passed, it emits electrons to ionize the gas.
- Ballast: It regulates the current passing through the tube.
- Phosphorous: It aids in the conversion of UV light into visible light.
- Starter: It assists in commencing the arc discharge.
What are the different types of Fluorescent Tubes?
Linear fluorescent tubes are the most common type of fluorescent light. They are available in various sizes, with the main difference being their diameter.
- T12s: These are the oldest fluorescent tubes, with a diameter of 1.5 inches. They require magnetic ballasts for their operation, which are no longer manufactured. You might find some of these T12s in older warehouses or hallways of apartments.
- T8s: These are the most common type of fluorescent tubes used today. They have a 1-inch diameter and are used in hospitals, schools, retail, and commercial areas.
- T5s: These are fluorescent tubes with a 5/8-inch diameter. They are the latest version of fluorescent lights with increased energy efficiency and brightness. Some T5s can last up to 90,000 hours. Amazing, right?
- Bent Lamps: These lamps have the tube bent in a U-shape. The most commonly used is a fluorescent bent T8 with a 6-inch leg spacing. This fluorescent lamp is used primarily on a 2*2 troffer, mainly in hospitals and offices.
You might need clarification about what a troffer is. Well, here it is!
A troffer is a rectangular shaped light supporting device that fits into a ceiling and helps in accommodating standard fluorescent lamps.
What are the factors you must consider before buying Fluorescent Lights?
Certain factors must be considered to ensure you purchase the right product according to your needs.
- To prevent installation problems, you must check that the light you are choosing is compatible with your current fittings and ballast.
- Choose the color temperature of the fluorescent light according to your surroundings. In most scenarios, cool white is used in office spaces, whereas warm white is used in domestic areas.
- Check the energy-efficient ratings carefully; they will help you choose the most effective option in the long run.
- Always purchase from trusted wholesalers or manufacturers to ensure the product is high quality and safe. If you want to replace your old fluorescent lights and find a variety, you can check the AGM Electrical Supplies website.
Conclusion
Electrical Wholesalers Fluorescent lights have been used for decades for their numerous benefits, such as longevity, energy efficiency, and better light output. They are vital in today’s lighting solutions, whether used in housing areas or office settings. With technological advancement, more sustainable and better options are available for optimal illumination.