Energy saving lamps (ESL) are becoming more and more popular. This term often refers only to fluorescent lamps. But energy-saving devices also include other devices that have a low energy consumption value and at the same time good light output. They are used not only for lighting rooms. Another lamp has become widespread. ESL for plants - additional light when daylight is not enough, especially in the cold season.
Variety of devices
There is a lot of ESL present today. Lamps fall into several categories. If we talk about luminescent, then they, in turn, can be of a contact or linear type.
This group also includes some types of LED lamps, which have a number of advantages over fluorescent ones. They do not contain harmful and dangerous substances. Long service life and trouble-free operation are ensured by the mechanical strength of the device. The value of light output and such devices is higher.
ESL also differ in device. Lamps are divided into two parts:with electric and electromagnetic choke. Devices belonging to the first group are preferable to the second. They have better performance and no extra noise.
There is another classification that concerns the size of the plinth. According to this indicator, energy-saving lamps are divided into three categories:
With index E14. They differ in a threaded hole (1.4 centimeters). Reduced diameter household cartridges are required to use them
E27, which have a 2.7 cm threaded hole. They are designed to fit standard size chucks
E40. Such lamps in their design have a built-in electronic ballast
Design and principle of operation
At the ends of the tube are electrodes that heat up when the ESL is turned on. Lamps heat up to almost a thousand degrees. By increasing the temperature, free electrons appear. They begin to move chaotically until they are accelerated by the voltage.
Due to their movement, electrons collide with atoms of mercury and argon. Thanks to mercury vapor, a low-temperature plasma is formed. It is she who becomes ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation, starting from the phosphor, which covers the walls of the tube from the inside, forms visible light.
The electrodes located at the ends of the tube periodically change their sign. They become either cathodes or anodes. This is achieved by applying an alternating voltage. Moreover, the generator supplyingvoltage, operates at a frequency of several tens of kilohertz. Thanks to this, ECLs do not flicker.
Lamps and their indicators
Which appliances are suitable for use? For operation, they must have the necessary ESL indicators. Lamps must have the following specifications:
Plinth size
Lamp size. Energy-saving lamps are larger than conventional ones. Therefore, before buying, you should make sure that they fit in the lamp
The ability to change the brightness of combustion
Service life, which is indicated in hours (for cases where the mains voltage does not change)
The number of times the lamp circuit can withstand
Knowing these characteristics, you can choose a suitable energy-saving lamp.
