All types of electric lamps for household lighting. Modern lighting lamps

Among all electrical installation and installation products, lighting equipment has the richest assortment. This happens because lighting elements carry not only purely technical characteristics, but also design elements. The possibilities of modern lamps and fixtures, their design diversity are so great that it’s easy to get confused. For example, there is a whole class of lamps designed exclusively for plasterboard ceilings.

Numerous types of lamps have a different nature of light and are operated under different conditions. To figure out what type of lamp should be in a particular place and what are the conditions for its connection, it is necessary to briefly study the main types of lighting equipment.

All lamps have one common part: the base, with which they are connected to the lighting wires. This applies to those lamps that have a base with a thread for mounting in a socket. The dimensions of the base and cartridge have a strict classification. You need to know that in everyday life lamps with 3 types of bases are used: small, medium and large. In technical language this means E14, E27 and E40. The base, or cartridge, E14 is often called “minion” (in German from French - “small”).

The most common size is E27. E40 is used for street lighting. Lamps of this marking have a power of 300, 500 and 1000 W. The numbers in the name indicate the diameter of the base in millimeters. In addition to the bases, which are screwed into the cartridge using a thread, there are other types. They are pin type and are called G-sockets. Used in compact fluorescent and halogen lamps to save space. Using 2 or 4 pins, the lamp is attached to the lamp socket. There are many types of G-sockets. The main ones are: G5, G9, 2G10, 2G11, G23 and R7s-7. Fixtures and lamps always contain information about the base. When choosing a lamp, you need to compare these data.

Power lamps- one of the most important characteristics. On the cylinder or base, the manufacturer always indicates the power on which it depends. lamp luminosity. It's not the level of light it emits. In lamps of different types of light, power has completely different meanings.

For example, energy saving lamp at the specified power of 5 W it will shine no worse incandescent lamps at 60 W. The same applies to fluorescent lamps. The luminosity of a lamp is calculated in lumens. As a rule, this is not indicated, so when choosing a lamp you need to rely on the advice of sellers.

Light output means that per 1 W of power the lamp produces so many lumens of light. Obviously, an energy-saving compact fluorescent lamp is 4–9 times more economical than incandescent lamps. You can easily calculate that a standard 60 W lamp produces approximately 600 lm, while a compact lamp has the same value at 10-11 W. It will be just as economical in terms of energy consumption.

Incandescent lamps

(LON) is the very first source of electric light that appeared in household use. It was invented back in the mid-19th century, and although since then it has undergone many reconstructions, the essence has remained unchanged. Any incandescent lamp consists of a vacuum glass cylinder, a base on which the contacts and fuse are located, and a filament that emits light.

filament coil made of tungsten alloys that can easily withstand the operating combustion temperature of +3200 °C. To prevent the filament from burning out instantly, in modern lamps some inert gas, such as argon, is pumped into the cylinder.

The principle of operation of the lamp is very simple. When current is passed through a conductor of small cross-section and low conductivity, part of the energy is spent on heating the spiral conductor, causing it to begin to glow in visible light. Despite such a simple device, there are a huge number of types of LON. They vary in shape and size.

Decorative lamps(candles): the balloon has an elongated shape, stylized as a regular candle. Typically used in small lamps and sconces.

Painted lamps: Glass cylinders have different colors for decorative purposes.

Mirror lamps are called lamps, part of the glass container of which is coated with a reflective composition to direct the light in a compact beam. These lamps are most often used in ceiling lights to direct light downward without illuminating the ceiling.

Local lighting lamps operate under voltage of 12, 24 and 36 V. They consume little energy, but the lighting is appropriate. Used in handheld flashlights, emergency lighting, etc. LONs are still at the forefront of light sources, despite some disadvantages. Their disadvantage is their very low efficiency - no more than 2–3% of the energy consumed. Everything else goes into heat.

The second disadvantage is that LON is unsafe from a fire safety point of view. For example, an ordinary newspaper, if placed on a 100 W light bulb, flares up in about 20 minutes. Needless to say, in some places LON cannot be used, for example in small lampshades made of plastic or wood. In addition, such lamps are short-lived. The service life of LON is approximately 500–1000 hours. The advantages include low cost and ease of installation. LONs do not require any additional devices to operate, like luminescent ones.

Halogen lamps

Halogen lamps They are not much different from incandescent lamps, the operating principle is the same. The only difference between them is the gas composition in the cylinder. In these lamps, iodine or bromine is mixed with an inert gas. As a result, it becomes possible to increase the temperature of the filament and reduce the evaporation of tungsten.

That's why halogen lamps can be made more compact, and their service life increases by 2–3 times. However, the heating temperature of glass increases quite significantly, which is why halogen lamps are made of quartz material. They do not tolerate contamination on the flask. Do not touch the cylinder with an unprotected hand - the lamp will burn out very quickly.

Linear halogen lamps used in portable or stationary floodlights. They often have motion sensors. Such lamps are used in plasterboard structures.

Compact lighting devices have a mirror finish.

On to the cons halogen lamps sensitivity to voltage changes can be attributed. If it “plays”, it is better to purchase a special transformer that equalizes the current strength.

Fluorescent lamps

Operating principle fluorescent lamps seriously different from LON. Instead of a tungsten filament, mercury vapor burns in the glass bulb of such a lamp under the influence of an electric current. The light from a gas discharge is practically invisible because it is emitted in the ultraviolet. The latter makes the phosphor that coats the walls of the tube glow. This is the light we see. Externally and in terms of connection method, fluorescent lamps are also very different from LON. Instead of a threaded cartridge, there are two pins on both sides of the tube, which are secured as follows: they must be inserted into a special cartridge and rotated in it.

Fluorescent lamps have a low operating temperature. You can safely rest your palm on their surface, so they can be installed anywhere. The large glow surface creates an even, diffused light. That's why they are also called fluorescent lamps. In addition, by varying the composition of the phosphor, you can change the color of the light emission, making it more acceptable to the human eye. The service life of fluorescent lamps is almost 10 times longer than incandescent lamps.

Disadvantages of fluorescent lamps is the impossibility of direct connection to the electrical network. You can’t just throw 2 wires over the ends of the lamp and plug the plug into the socket. To turn it on, special ballasts are used. This is due to the physical nature of the glow of the lamps. Along with electronic ballasts, starters are used, which seem to ignite the lamp at the moment it is turned on. Most fluorescent lamps are equipped with built-in lighting mechanisms like electronic ballasts (ballasts) or chokes.

Marking of fluorescent lamps is not similar to simple LON designations, which only have a power indicator in watts.

For the lamps in question it is as follows:

• LB - white light;
• LD - daylight;
• LE - natural light;
• LHB - cold light;
• LTB - warm light.

The numbers following the letter marking indicate: the first number is the degree of color rendering, the second and third are the glow temperature. The higher the degree of color rendering, the more natural the lighting is for the human eye. Let's consider an example related to the glow temperature: a lamp marked LB840 means that this temperature is 4000 K, the color is white, daylight.

The following values ​​decipher the lamp markings:

• 2700 K - super warm white,
• 3000 K - warm white,
• 4000 K - natural white or white,
• more than 5000 K - cool white (daytime).

Recently, the appearance on the market of compact fluorescent energy-saving lamps has made a real revolution in lighting technology. The main disadvantages of fluorescent lamps were eliminated - their bulky size and the inability to use conventional threaded cartridges. The ballasts were mounted into the lamp base, and the long tube was curled into a compact spiral.

Now the variety of types of energy-saving lamps is very large. They differ not only in their power, but also in the shape of the discharge tubes. The advantages of such a lamp are obvious: there is no need to install electronic ballast to start using special lamps.

Economical fluorescent lamp replaced the conventional incandescent lamp. However, like all fluorescent lamps, it has its drawbacks.

Fluorescent lamps have several disadvantages:

• such lamps do not work well at low temperatures, and at –10 °C and below they begin to shine dimly;
• long startup time - from several seconds to several minutes;
• a low-frequency hum is heard from the electronic ballast;
• do not work together with dimmers;
• relatively expensive;
• do not like frequent switching on and off;
• the lamp contains harmful mercury compounds, so it requires special disposal;
• If you use backlight indicators in the switch, this lighting equipment begins to flicker.

No matter how hard manufacturers try, the light of fluorescent lamps is not yet very similar to natural light and hurts the eyes. In addition to energy-saving lamps with ballasts, there are many varieties without built-in electronic ballast. They have completely different types of base.

Glow principle high pressure mercury arc lamp(DRL) - arc discharge in mercury vapor. Such lamps have high light output - 50–60 lm per 1 W. They are launched using ballasts. The disadvantage is the spectrum of the glow - their light is cold and harsh. DRL lamps are most often used for street lighting in cobra-type lamps.

LED lamps

LED lamps- this high-tech product was first designed in 1962. Since then, LED lamps have gradually been introduced into the lighting market. According to the principle of operation, an LED is the most common semiconductor in which part of the energy in the p-n junction is discharged in the form of photons, that is, visible light. Such lamps They have simply amazing characteristics.

They are ten times superior to LON in all indications:

• durability,
• light output,
• efficiency,
• strength, etc.

They have only one “but” - the price. It is approximately 100 times the price of a conventional incandescent lamp. However, work on these unusual light sources continues, and we can expect that we will soon rejoice at the invention of a cheaper model than its predecessors.

Note! Due to the unusual physical characteristics of LEDs, real compositions can be made from them, for example, in the form of a starry sky on the ceiling of a room. It is safe and does not require much energy.

There are different types of lamps for arranging lighting. In addition to traditional incandescent devices, other types of light bulbs have become widespread, for example, LED, fluorescent, and halogen.

In this article we will look at the most popular light sources among users, noting the features of their design, advantages and disadvantages.

A device of this type consists of a base where the contacts are located, a fuse, an incandescent element and a glass cylinder.

The spiral is usually made of an alloy with tungsten, which can withstand a high combustion temperature of +3200 °C for a long time. To extend the burnout time, the cylinder is filled with argon or other inert gas; in some devices, on the contrary, they create a vacuum.

To operate the lamp, electric current is passed through a conductor that has a small cross-section and a low degree of conductivity. The energy heats up the spiral, which emits light waves.

Various types of lamps are used to illuminate rooms, the choice of which depends on the purpose of the light source, the required brightness and other criteria.

There is a huge variety of general purpose light bulbs, or LON for short: regular size or miniature for local lighting.

According to the type of design, the flask can be:

• painted;
• frosted glass;
• mirror

Modifications of LON can have flasks not only with colorless glass, but also with multi-colored transparent glass. As a rule, they are used for decorative purposes.

Models with frosted glass cylinders are in demand, providing soft, uniform light, which is especially suitable for lighting bedrooms and children's rooms.

The most advanced models of this type are krypton, bispiral lamps, which have improved characteristics. However, they are inferior in quality to other categories of lighting fixtures

For mirror devices, part of the cylinder is coated with a special compound that reflects light, directing it in a narrow stream.

Such devices are often inserted into ceiling lamps, since they allow light to be cast only downward, without illuminating or heating the upper surface.

Light bulbs operating on voltages of 12, 24, 36 V require minimal electricity consumption, but produce a very dim, weak light. They are used in flashlights or for emergency lighting.

Technical characteristics of LON. Products of this type have the following qualities:

• light output - 9-19 Lm/W;
• power - 25-150 Watt;
• the average operating period is one thousand hours at a voltage of 220 V;
• Efficiency – less than 30%.

The advantages include low price, simple and accessible installation for everyone, pleasant yellowish lighting light.

Incandescent appliances have significantly more disadvantages: they are fragile, quickly burn out during voltage surges, and in addition, their surface becomes very hot, which can cause a fire.

Variety of halogen light sources

This type of device with a base has a design similar to incandescent lamps, but instead of an inert gas, the bulb is filled with compounds of iodine, bromine or other halogens. This allows you to reduce evaporation of the heating element, as well as increase its temperature.

Halogen products emit an intense stream of light rays in a color that is pleasing to the eye. They are often used to illuminate and highlight individual interior details.

In addition to base lamps, other options have become widespread, for example, linear halogen lamps, which have the shape of a tube. Impact-resistant models with intense light are used for street floodlights.

Capsule low-voltage devices with miniature dimensions are popular. They are often used for chandeliers or suspended ceilings, but the connection to the network must be done through a special transformer.

Another type is reflective devices, the design of which uses a special reflector - most often an aluminum disk. It allows you to adjust the angle of incidence of the light beam, directing it to the desired area of ​​the room.

Such devices are used to install ceiling lamps, since they eliminate heating of the upper surface.

Technical characteristics of halogen lamps. The light bulbs have the following indicators:

• power - 1-20 W;
• color rendering index - 100%;
• flask heating – 500 °C;
• light output - 15-22 Lm/W;
• operates in the range from -60 to +100 °C;
• service life - 2000-4000, when using a transformer up to 8000 hours;
• Efficiency – 50-80%.

Among the advantages of this category of devices are a fairly long service life, as well as the ability to manufacture miniature models that provide bright light.

They have excellent color rendering, and modern technology can give the radiance emitted both a warm and cool shade.

Halogen devices can be high or low voltage. In the first case, they are powered directly from the network, and in the second they should be connected via a transformer

The disadvantages include strong heating of the surface of the flask, which is why it is made of heat-resistant quartz glass. But even in this case, it is not recommended to allow them to come into contact with the ceiling or walls of the lamp.

Halogen lamps are very sensitive to dirt - touching them with bare hands can cause the bulb to burn out or even disintegrate. They also do not tolerate power surges well.

Fluorescent lamps (CFL and LL)

The devices consist of a bulb, the inner surface of which is coated with a phosphor. The container containing the electrodes is filled with a mixture of mercury vapor and inert gas.

For starting, a special unit is used - electronic or mechanical ballast. When turned on, a charge is sent inside the flask, which causes the formation of ultraviolet waves, under the influence of which the phosphor begins to glow evenly.

Fluorescent lamps can emit light of different shades. Various markings are used to designate it. As an example, we can call LTB - warm light lamp, LHB - cold light, LE - natural light

Models are divided into two types:

• linear devices (LL) - bulky tubes with two pins at the ends;
• compact lamps (CFLs), which have the appearance of a twisted spiral, in which the starting unit is hidden in the base.

The marking G indicates devices with a pin design, and the letter E indicates a threaded cartridge.

Technical characteristics of CFL. Household appliances of this type are characterized by the following qualities:

• light output - 40-80 Lm/W;
• power - 15-80 Watt;
• service period - 10,000-40,000 hours.

An important advantage of luminescents is their low operating temperature. Even when the product is turned on, you can safely touch it with your bare hand, making it safe to install on any surface.

At the same time, such devices have many negative sides. First of all, they are not environmentally friendly enough - the mercury vapor inside is poisonous.

Although they are not harmful to humans in a closed bulb, broken or burnt out bulbs can pose a danger. Because of this, they require a recycling procedure: used products must be taken to recycling points, which are not always easy to find.

Fluorescent devices consume significantly less electricity than incandescent lamps, they have a long service life and good light output

Other disadvantages include:

1. Unstable operation at low temperatures. At -10 °C, even powerful devices shine extremely dimly.
2. When turned on, the lamps do not light up immediately, but after a few seconds or minutes.
3. Their cost is quite high.
4. Operation may be accompanied by a low-frequency hum.
5. Such models are difficult to compatible with dimmers, which makes it difficult to adjust the light intensity. It is also undesirable to use them together with switches that have backlight indicators.
6. Although the service life is quite long, it is significantly reduced if it is turned on and off frequently.

In addition, the light emitted by these devices pulsates strongly, which tires the eyes.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

The design of diode light bulbs is based on semiconductor crystals, which, as a result of a p-n junction, emit light rays.

As a rule, they involve at least five diodes, which are connected to the installation board. Operation occurs using a driver that converts alternating current into direct current.

The lamps practically do not heat up during operation, since they have special parts - radiators - to remove heat. Depending on the modification, the devices are equipped with screw or pin sockets.

Using LED elements you can create attractive compositions on stretch/suspended ceilings. The design made from lamps of different colors looks especially impressive.

Types of LEDs include filament devices. Outwardly, they resemble ordinary incandescent lamps, but instead of a spiral, they are equipped with semiconductor elements strung on a rod, which is placed in a flask with an inert gas.

In order for such a device to be screwed into the cartridge, it is supplemented with a traditional threaded base. Such models allow you to combine retro design with higher technical characteristics, such as energy efficiency, durability, and environmental friendliness.

Autonomous LED lamps powered by solar panels are also gaining popularity. They recharge during daylight hours and automatically turn on when darkness falls. Such models can operate in a wide temperature range from -30 to +50 °C.

Technical characteristics of LED lamps. The devices are characterized by the following properties:

• power - 3-30 W;
• service life - 30,000-50,000 hours;
• light output - 100-120 Lm/W;
• light flux - 250-2500 lm.

LEDs can dramatically reduce lighting costs by up to 85%; their operation does not generate thermal, ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

Since no harmful substances are used in their production, they are considered environmentally friendly and do not require special disposal.

Filament lamps look great in retro-style lamps; they can be used for classic interior design or used for other purposes

Unlike fluorescent lamps, these devices light up instantly, in addition, most models are dimmable, which allows you to set the desired level of light intensity.

Among the disadvantages, we can note the extremely high price; in addition, conventional lamps have a directional flow of light; Filament devices do not have this disadvantage. To illuminate a room, several sources are usually required at once.

Rules for choosing the best lighting lamp

When choosing models for organizing lighting in residential premises, you should take into account not only the type to which the light bulb belongs, but also a number of other factors, namely:

• base device;
• power;
• color rendering index;
• light output;
• luminous flux stability coefficient;
• terms of Use.

Devices designed to be connected to a socket have a common part - a base, which is used for fastening with wires. In order for the lamp to be installed in the socket, it is important to pay attention to the marking of this element.

Among the threaded connections, the most popular are three types: “minion” E14, medium-sized E27 and large E40. The second option is most widespread, while the latter is usually used for street lighting.

The summary table shows the main performance characteristics of the four most popular types of lamps used for domestic purposes

Miniature fluorescent and halogen lamps often have G bases, which are attached to sockets using 2-4 pins. There are many options for such devices of different sizes, of which modifications G5, G9, G23, 2G10, 2G11 are especially in demand.

An important criterion is the lamp power; this indicator is indicated on the cylinder or base. If we take devices of the same type, then the light intensity depends on this value.

However, this rule does not work if you take devices of different types: the brightness of a 5-6 W LED is almost equal to the glow of a 60-watt incandescent lamp.

Luminous output indicates the number of lumens of light produced by a 1-watt lamp.

This factor is closely related to the energy efficiency of the device: a fluorescent device produces 600 lumens at a power of 10-11 W, while an incandescent device will require approximately 60 W for a similar flow of light.

The design of the luminaire and lamp also has an impact. Often, models of modern chandeliers or sconces are specially made for a certain type of appliance, for example, halogen. In this case, the manufacturer usually indicates in the instructions the characteristics of the required lamps.

To connect some types of lamps, you need to use additional equipment: power supplies, drivers, transformers. The figure shows the electronic ballast required for fluorescent lamps

Certain types of devices also demonstrate increased sensitivity to voltage changes, which must be taken into account when living in regions where there are problems with electrical networks.

There is also a difference caused by color temperature. There are several different standards for the most common labeling:

• 2700K indicates a warm tint similar to incandescent bulbs;
• 4000 K – daylight neutral tone;
• 6500 K – cold option.

The color rendering index R a reflects the correct perception of the color of the environment when illuminated by this type of lamp. As a rule, this indicator is indicated on the packaging, for example, 80 R a for LEDs.

Light flux stability coefficient. This factor manifests itself throughout the entire period of operation of the device, during which the brightness should decrease by no more than 30% of the nominal value.

This indicator is of particular relevance for LEDs, which do not burn out, but gradually lose lighting intensity.

So, if at the beginning such a device emits light of 1000 lumens, then at the end of its service life this figure should be at least 70% of the original, that is, 700 lumens.

The optimal choice for different rooms

Experts involved in interior design advise using compact LEDs or low-voltage miniature halogens for suspended or suspended ceilings.

It is also important to take into account that the power of the lamps must correspond to that of the lamp or be lower. Violation of this rule can lead to serious consequences

Almost all types of lighting fixtures can be used in chandeliers and other hanging structures. If the lamps are made of fusible materials, it is better to use LED or fluorescent sources.

The best options for sconces are small halogens, fluorescent models or traditional incandescent lamps. Often in such devices decorative modifications are used with flasks in the form of drops, flames, and balls.

For lighting, small LED bulbs or compact halogen bulbs powered by a transformer are suitable.

Living rooms usually use a combination of several lighting fixtures. A ceiling or hanging chandelier is complemented by a sconce, a floor lamp, a decorative table lamp, as well as built-in lamps.

It is advisable to equip the main device with a dimmer, which will allow you to dim its intensity.

The table contains the values ​​of the illumination level required by SNiP 05/23/2010. Indicators are given in lumens

Floodlights for outdoor lighting predominantly use linear halogen devices. Lighting decoration of a yard or area is also possible using LEDs, including those powered by solar panels, or powerful incandescent lamps.

In the basement and cellar, where there is usually a high level of humidity, it is necessary to use lamps with waterproofing and a completely closed socket.

To prevent short circuits, it is advisable to use a step-down transformer. In this case, one or two 12-volt LED sources are best suited as a lighting device.

Similar requirements apply to lighting devices in bathrooms. Typically, halogen/LED models as well as incandescent lamps are used to illuminate the space.

To equip a schoolchild's workplace, a flexible table lamp is usually used, which allows you to change the direction of the light beam. Typically, a traditional 60-volt incandescent device with a clear or frosted bulb is inserted into it.

If there is a lack of light, it is advisable to also add lighting with built-in halogen lamps.

The choice of light source for greenhouses requires special attention. As research by scientists has shown, the red and blue regions of the spectrum are especially useful for plants. The first has a powerful effect during the flowering and fruiting period of vegetables, the second contributes to their active growth and development.

The easiest way to reproduce this light range is with the help of special LED lamps. You can make them yourself or buy them in a store.

A table that allows you to easily calculate the required power of different types of lamps. With its help you can easily create the lighting level required by the current SNiP

When choosing a model, you should pay attention to the shade of the emitted rays. Typically, this factor depends on user preferences.

When determining the power of a lamp, you need to take into account not only the area of ​​the room for which it is intended, but also the degree of natural lighting level: in darkened spaces with windows to the north, more powerful devices are installed.

Influences the choice and color scheme of the interior: rooms with dark walls require more powerful lamps.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The presented video describes in detail the main characteristics of various types of light sources.

Continuation of the story, where we talk about the options for lamp bases and the features of their use.

Despite the fact that light bulbs are basic devices, their role in creating a comfortable and cozy living environment is difficult to overestimate. A properly selected device will create comfortable lighting, which is an integral part of comfort in the home.

The lamp will serve reliably for a long time, perfectly complementing a chandelier or other lamp. In addition, an energy-saving device will reduce the amount of utility bills due to energy savings.

Among artificial lighting sources, the most widespread are incandescent lamps. Wherever there is an electric current, one can find the transformation of its energy into light, and incandescent lamps are almost always used for this. Let's figure out how and what heats up in them, and what they are like.

The features of a particular lamp can be found out by studying the index stamped on its metal base.

The index uses the following alphanumeric notations:

• B - Spiral, argon filling
• BC - Spiral, krypton filling
• B - Vacuum
• G - Gas-filled, argon filling
• DS, DS – Decorative lamps
• RN - various purposes
• A - Lampshade
• B - Twisted form
• D - Decorative form
• E - With screw base
• E27 - Base version
• Z - Mirror
• ZK - Concentrated light distribution of a mirror lamp
• ZSh - Wide light distribution
• 215-230V - Recommended voltage scale
• 75 W - Electricity power consumption

Types of incandescent lamps and their functional purpose

1. General purpose incandescent lamps

In terms of their functional purpose, the most common are general purpose incandescent lamps (GLP). All LON produced in Russia must comply with the requirements of GOST 2239-79. They are used for external and internal, as well as for decorative lighting, in household and industrial networks with a voltage of 127 and 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

LONs have a relatively short life, on average about 1000 hours, and low efficiency - they convert only 5% of electricity into light, and the rest is released as heat.

A feature of low-power (up to 25 W) LONs is the carbon filament used in them as a filament. This outdated technology was used in the first "" and was preserved only here.

Seismic-resistant lamps, also part of the LON group, are structurally capable of withstanding a seismic shock lasting up to 50 ms.

2. Incandescent floodlight lamps

Incandescent floodlights have significantly greater power compared to other types and are designed for directional lighting or supplying light signals over long distances. According to GOST, they are divided into three groups: film projection lamps (GOST 4019-74), for general purpose floodlights (GOST 7874-76) and lighthouse lamps (GOST 16301-80).

The use of three-wire wiring in a home network provides a high level of fire safety and reduces risks to human life. To resolve the issue, it is enough to follow the basic rules and installation diagram.

To equip electrical networks of residential premises with safety equipment, it is necessary to make a choice between installing an RCD or a circuit breaker. Can help with this. You can install a difavtomat using several methods, which you can read about.

The filament body in spotlight lamps is longer and at the same time located more compactly, to enhance the overall brightness and subsequent focusing of the light flux. The task of focusing is solved by special focusing bases provided in some models, or by optical lenses in the designs of searchlights and beacons.

The maximum power of floodlight lamps produced in Russia today is 10 kW.

3. Incandescent mirror lamps

Mirror incandescent lamps are distinguished by a special bulb design and a reflective aluminum layer. The light-conducting part of the bulb is made of frosted glass, which gives the light softness and smoothes out contrasting shadows from objects. Such lamps are marked with indices indicating the type of luminous flux: ZK (concentrated light distribution), ZS (medium light distribution) or ZSh (wide light distribution).

This group also includes neodymium lamps, the difference of which is the addition of neodymium oxide to the formula of the composition from which the glass bulb is blown. Due to this, part of the yellow spectrum is absorbed, and the color temperature shifts to the region of brighter white radiation. This allows the use of neodymium lamps in interior lighting for greater brightness and preservation of shades in the interior. The letter “N” has been added to the index of neodymium lamps.

The scope of application of mirror lamps is huge: shop windows, stage lighting, greenhouses, greenhouses, livestock farms, lighting of medical offices and much more.


4. Incandescent halogen lamps

Before determining which incandescent lamp you need, it is worth studying the features and markings of existing types. With all their diversity, you need to accurately understand the purpose of the lamp you choose and how and where it will be used. Failure to meet the characteristics of a lamp for the purposes for which it is purchased can not only lead to unnecessary expenses, but also lead to emergency situations, including damage to the electrical network and fire.

An entertaining video describing the operation of three types of light bulbs

Every modern house is equipped with lamps. Despite this, only a few understand them.

Knowledge of lighting devices helps to select, install and operate them correctly, therefore it is important to know more about lighting and understand how lighting lamps differ.

Main Features

To move on to considering individual types of lamps, you need to get acquainted with their characteristics. The characteristics are looked at when planning lighting in a room. It depends on them whether it will be fully illuminated, what color temperature the light will have, and the like.

Light output and color rendering index

Light output will determine how many lumens a 1-watt light source produces. For example, an incandescent lamp with a light output of 10 lm/W at a power of 10 W will shine 10 times worse than a halogen lamp with 100 lm/W.

Lamps with a high value of this coefficient emit light that is more natural than those with a low value. Therefore, the light from the first lamps will look brighter and clearer, like from the sun.

Color temperature

It affects what shade the objects on which the light falls will have. It is measured in degrees Kelvin. Scales often used range from 1800 to 6600. The higher the value, the colder the object appears. For example, a white object when illuminated by a cold light source will appear bluish, and when illuminated by a “warm” light source it will appear yellowish.

There is no optimal light temperature. Each temperature is suitable for a specific case:

Types of lighting lamps

Before purchasing a lamp, you need to pay attention not only to its characteristics, but also to the type to which it belongs. This determines whether the light source will make noise, emit harmful substances, its service life and similar important features.

This type of light source was the very first to be invented. The essence of its work is to glow a tungsten filament. This type of lamp can be used in stationary and portable devices. Lighting devices of this type are divided into three groups depending on the composition of the gas: vacuum, halogen and tungsten.

Vacuum bulbs

The principle of operation is that a tungsten filament placed in a vacuum flask is heated using electricity. The heated filament glows well and spreads light. In stationary devices it operates from a voltage of 220 V, and in portable devices - from 12, 24, 36 V.

Incandescent lamps differ in base size depending on their use:

• for flashlights - 10 mm;
• for medium-sized flashlights - 14 mm;
• standard - refers to types of light bulbs for the home, 27 mm;
• for outdoor lighting - 40 mm.

You can find the diameter of the lamp in the marking after the letter “E”.

Pros:

1. Wide range of applications.
2. Availability.
3. Easy to use.
4. Price.

Cons:

1. Low efficiency.
2. Short service life (up to 1 thousand hours).
3. Heat generation (plastic and wooden structures may ignite).

When choosing such a lamp, remember that the higher the power, the shorter the light source will last. Therefore, if you need to illuminate a large surface or need a bright light source, then this option is suitable, but will not last long.

Krypton

These lamps differ in that the inert gas krypton is added to the capsule. They serve twice as long, but cost four times more. They have a more compact size. Other characteristics are almost the same as vacuum ones.

Halogen

These lamps contain halogen vapors in the bulbs. The use of this gas allows you to increase the operating time to 2000−4000 hours. It is important to note that they have higher light output. Given this and their small size, the lamps can be used in plasterboard structures (for example, in suspended ceilings).

When installing, you need to remember that the light lamp is sensitive to contamination, for example, grease. Therefore, it should not be allowed to come into contact with the surface of the lighting fixture. Because of this, you should install it with gloves.

If the choice fell on halogen light sources, then try to find a new type with infrared coating. It transmits visible light and reflects thermal radiation. Such lighting devices consume less electricity and have an increased service life.

Gas discharge

The principle of operation is that an electrical discharge passes through a gas filling the tube. The cavity of the tube is hermetically sealed, and it may contain various substances that determine the type of lamps:

1. Mercury (mercury).
2. Neon (neon), xenon (xenon), argon (argon) and so on.
3. Sodium (sodium).

When choosing this type of lighting fixture, pay attention to the presence of a ballast that starts the glow process. The point is that it is not always built-in and sometimes you have to buy it separately.

Mercury

Such lamps are toxic and after the end of their service life must be disposed of at special collection points. From 2020, the production, export and import of certain types of mercury-containing products will be prohibited.

This suggests that mercury lighting should be used with caution. Thus, a mercury arc fluorescent lamp should not be used in poorly ventilated areas where people work or stay for a long time. They are used in industrial areas with production automation and in street lighting.

In addition, mercury lamps take a long time to turn on. In extreme cold conditions, the start time can be up to 15 minutes. If there is a short-term power outage, you will have to wait this time again.

Luminescent

If you don't know what long lamps are called, this is them. They are also called fluorescent lamps. The characteristics are indicated in the labeling. The letters indicate the shade of light:

• LB - white;
• LD - daytime;
• LE - natural;
• LHB - cool white;
• LTB - warm white.

The number following the letters indicates the degree of color rendering from 6 to 9. This number will determine how natural the objects on which the light falls look. Next come two numbers showing the color temperature of the lighting elements. You need to add two zeros to this number to get the temperature in Kelvin.

Installation is carried out using a G-base. It resembles a socket into which two cylinder pins are inserted. It’s easy to make a mistake when selecting the right lamp for the base, so check the type of mount before purchasing.

The positive qualities of such lamps include a long service life and natural light similar to sunlight. The disadvantages are that fluorescent lighting fixtures make a lot of noise during operation. Such devices are less toxic than mercury devices, but they still need to be disposed of at special collection points. The service life depends on the number of turns on, so it’s better to do without light once again than to wait for a long time to turn on.

Sodium

As the name suggests, their work is based on the use of sodium vapor. This causes the light from such light sources to appear yellowish. For this reason, they are used in places where good color rendering is not necessary. The color rendering of such lamps varies from 39 to 59.

They can be found in street lighting, when illuminating bridges, various buildings, and so on. A non-obvious use for such lamps is to illuminate plants in winter. This is possible thanks to power from 50 to 100 W.

Such lamps cost from 200 rubles and will last about 30 thousand hours. It is for this reason that they are used for street lighting, despite their low light transmission.

Xenon

Unlike the previous version, they have high color rendering. In addition, it is possible to flexibly adjust the brightness. This makes them indispensable light sources in projectors, flashlights, car headlights and similar lighting devices.

Xenon lamps are manufactured for a specific purpose. Depending on this, the cost can be several hundred or several thousand rubles. The price depends on the light temperature, which varies from 3,000 to 12,000 K, and the service life, which can reach 3 thousand hours.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

Expensive lamps that fully justify their cost. They require little power and last between 30,000 and 50,000 hours. It is optimal to use for lighting streets and in rooms where people often visit, for example, in entrances with motion sensors.

They do not emit harmful substances, have small dimensions, hardly heat up and are resistant to mechanical stress. This makes them the optimal choice for any occasion.

In addition to the cost, the disadvantages include the fact that the light that comes from them is narrowly focused, and after a significant service life, the LEDs burn out, which leads to a significant decrease in brightness.

If you choose a lighting source without familiarizing yourself with their characteristics, you can spend a large amount and not get the desired result. And if you take your choice seriously, you can not only save money, but also fully satisfy your needs.