Fluorescent lamps have the following advantages:
- High light output: depending on type, over 90 Lumen/Watt
- High luminous flux: depending on type, over 6000 Lumen
- Long to very long service life: T8 (ø 26mm) fluorescent lamp + low-loss coil Medium service life: 10 – 13,000 hrsT8 Longlife lamp + low-loss coil Service life 12B10 : 35 – 46,000 hrs
- Simple procurement of replacement lamps: standardised worldwide, high level of acceptance
- Simple handling: lamps can be replaced by non-experts
- High degree of recyclability on disposal: almost 100%, as long as the lamp is taken to a collection point
The following points must be taken into account:
- Marked loss of luminous flux in low temperatures: a T8 fluorescent lamp supplies only a third of the nominal output at 0°C
- Starting difficulties in low temperatures: the lamps flicker or do not light up
- Standardised construction and light outputsStandardised tube lengths with corresponding outputs often do not allow optimum flexibility of illumination
- Service life losses during switching: many switching cycles considerably reduce service life
- Only dimmable to a certain extent: 5 - 100 %, after 100 hrs burning-in time. It is not permissible to operate at a low dimming value over long periods.
- Disposal via a collection point: fluorescent lamps contain 5 - 10 mg of mercury
Where are fluorescent lamps used?
Fluorescent lamps are regarded as simple, practical and energy-efficient light sources for illuminated signage.
However, fluorescent lamps are not the best illuminant for your illuminated advertising in every case. For example, the standardised lamp dimensions and outputs have a limiting effect on free selection of dimensioning, brightness, and light distribution.
We consider the main areas of use to be in double-sided illuminated signs and pylons. But large-scale illuminated transparencies and fascia boards are also ideal applications.
How do fluorescent lamps work?
Fluorescent lamps are low-pressure discharge lamps which work using mercury vapour. The mercury atoms stimulated by the inert gas filling emit ultraviolet radiation. The invisible UV-light is converted into visible light (fluorescence) by the illuminants inside the tube.
Depending on the composition of these illuminants, cold white (>5300 K), neutral white (3300 - 5300 K) and warm white light (<3300 K) can be generated with very good colour rendering.