The difference between halogen lamps and other lighting elements is that they have better color reproduction. They are also brighter and have directional radiation. It is no secret that they are purely conditionally called energy-saving - compared to ordinary incandescent lamps, such light sources have a much higher luminous efficiency and doubled service life.
There are many varieties of halogen lamps (12 volts and above) of various designs. In the article, we will consider their main types and characteristics.
How they function
Structurally, all lighting elements with a filament are the same and consist of a base, a filament body with a filament and a glass bulb. But halogen lamps differ in the content of iodine or bromine.
Their functioning is as follows. The tungsten atoms that make up the filament are released and react with halogens - iodine or bromine (this prevents them from depositing on the inside of the flask walls), creating a stream of light. Filling with gas significantly extends the life of the source.
Further there is a reverse development of the process - hightemperature causes new compounds to break down into their component parts. Tungsten is released on or near the surface of the filament.
This principle of operation makes the light output more intense and lengthens the life of a halogen lamp (12 volts or higher - it does not matter, the statement is true for all types).
What are the lamps
Originally, halogen lamps are classified according to their power sources: low-voltage, designed for a voltage of twelve volts, and lamps using two hundred and twenty volts.
In the first case, the lamps can be connected to a conventional network, but through a special step-down transformer or power supply for a 12 volt halogen lamp.
Classification by groups is carried out according to design features:
- Linear. They belong to the oldest variety, but are still successfully used today. They have pin holders in the amount of two pieces on both sides of the flask of an elongated shape. They are practically not used in everyday life due to the high power - from one to twenty watts.
- Capsule. They are small in size and are used to highlight interiors. There are modifications to connect to a conventional network. Small size and relatively low power allow 12 volt 20 watt halogen lamps to be used in open fixtures.
- With reflector. Due to the reflector, the lamps have a directional radiation effect. The lamps are available in two designs: aluminum(redirects heat forward) and interference (with the opposite effect). Differ in a big light stream. Lamps with a closed cover are used in open lighting fixtures, and the rest - in closed ones. This group includes both household 12 volt halogen lamps and those made for a conventional network.
- With a remote flask. Thanks to a similar design, they are very similar to incandescent lamps, but contain halogens inside.
Specifications
To determine the most preferred options among the many lamps on the market, you need to study their main characteristics.
The main parameters for identification are as follows:
- type of lamp base - marked with the letter G or H with numbers and indicates the design properties (open, closed type or socket), as well as the parameters of the connection network;
- power supply voltage (220V or 12V), the second can be adjusted by a step-down transformer;
- power - varies depending on the type of lamps: for linear - from one hundred to one and a half thousand watts, for low-voltage capsule halogen lamps 12 volts - from ten to fifty watts, for capsule 220 V - forty watts, for reflector halogen lamps – twenty to fifty watts;
- constructive shape of the glass flask - candle, pear-shaped, linear;
- stream of light;
- color temperature - comfortable lighting ranges from two and a half to three thousand kelvins;
- color rendering index - yhalogen is close to a hundred, which is the ideal indicator;
- service life is up to two thousand hours;
- Efficiency is between fifty and eighty percent.
Pros and cons
In order to correctly determine which lamp (sodium, metal halide, fluorescent, LED) is suitable for a particular light source and room, you need to know their advantages and benefits.
Pros of halogen lamps:
- lamps of any model have a high color rendering index and do not distort the color in the room;
- differ in light intensity;
- have a low cost;
- have twice the life of incandescent bulbs;
- wide product range - from halogen lamps 12 volts to two hundred and twenty volts of various designs;
- with great brightness, great for reading;
- easy to install.
The disadvantages of lamps include the following:
- prone to power surges;
- sensitive to multiple switching;
- fragile;
- get very hot.
Who produces
Currently, there are many manufacturers of these products. But the main ones are:
- Osram is the leader in this direction. Lamps "Osram" are produced in all possible types and designs, different power and orientation. Widely used in the automotive industry.
- MTF - produces lamps forcars.
- "Koito" is a Japanese manufacturer with a wide range for domestic use and in cars.
- "Optima" is a Russian company producing high quality products at affordable prices.
- Camelion is a German concern with a wide range of products.
- Navigator is a Russian manufacturer with a worldwide reputation.
The cost of lamps varies from forty to two hundred rubles apiece, depending on the manufacturer and power. Halogen lamp "Osram", for example, costs about one hundred and twenty rubles. You can buy products both in supermarkets and on the market.
Operating Rules
To extend the life of lighting elements, certain requirements must be met.
They are as follows:
- when installing the lamp in the socket, you must use a lint-free microfiber cloth or a napkin - you can’t take it with your hands to avoid shortening the service life due to fatty prints on the bulb and temperature redistribution;
- to evenly distribute the current, use a transformer for 12 volt halogen lamps;
- operation should take place at a stable voltage and without frequent on-off lamps;
- Cars require halogen lamp protectors to prevent short circuits and overheating.
Some features and choices
Based on how much the halogen12 volt lamp, we can say that it is similar to an incandescent lamp. That is, a 100-watt halogen will consume as much as a regular light bulb of the same power.
With the same characteristics compared to incandescent lamps, halogen light sources give a brighter and less yellow light.
Halogen fixtures are great for illuminating large spaces.
It is forbidden to take the lamp with unprotected hands immediately after turning it off due to the bulb being heated to a high temperature. Dispose of these lamps in the normal way.
When choosing a certain type of lamp, you need to understand the purpose of their purchase:
- lamps with diffused light are used for general lighting of premises;
- spotlights are used in ceiling (interior) structures;
- narrow beam designed for installation in table lamps.
Conclusion
This article describes the main varieties of halogen lamps. But manufacturers of these products are moving forward and every year they improve old models of lamps and create new ones. This can be seen in the systematically updated catalogues.
For those who want to use this type of lamp in domestic lighting, there are many options in choosing design and color solutions.
