Types Of Fluorescent Lights

The t stands for tubular and the numbers are an index for the diameter in inches of the tube.

Types of fluorescent lights.

The fluorescent bulbs are more complex than the incandescent bulbs. In a fluorescent tube the electric current passes between the cathodes exciting mercury and other gasses which are filled. Fluorescent bulbs including cfl bulbs contain mercury as do metal or ceramic halide bulbs mercury vapor bulbs neon and high pressure sodium bulbs. There are two different break downs of fluorescent light fixture ballast types as we explain here.

Buzzing in light bulbs is caused by an interruption in the current. T12 t8 and t5. Electronic ballasts ballast designs using different lamp starting strategies. Rapid start lamps are the most popular fluorescent lamp type used in commercial applications such as office buildings.

So in most cases you won t have to physically measure the tube s diameter and length. T4 t5 t8 and t12. Why do some light bulbs buzz. Linear fluorescent tubes are the most common type of fluorescent lamps.

To learn more about what cool and warm means in terms of the color quality of light sources see color metrics. The terminology comes from t for tubular and the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch so t8 represents a tube of 8 8ths of an inch or 1 inch. All fluorescent lamps use the same technology but there are several different variations and sizes. While there are multiple types of led and fluorescent tube lights the three most common are t12 t8 and t5.

Tip never exceed the maximum wattage recommended for your lamp or fixture. Hotels commercial office buildings grocery stores healthcare facilities warehouses parking garages and more all use fluorescent lighting. Which types are known for this. Each one has different strengths and weaknesses.

Compact fluorescent lights cfls and leds have a lower wattage than incandescent bulbs but emit the same light output. There are 4 different fluorescent light options.