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The Details About Commercial Hanging Fluorescent Light Fixtures

By Eloise Hewitt


With a goal of extending working hours during the war years, the need for better and more efficient light sources became obvious. As early as 1930s, there were significant efforts to improve lighting options in business locations. Commercial hanging fluorescent light fixtures are more expensive to install, thanks to the ballast, but over time, the cost is offset by lower operating expenses. The hanging fixtures are definitely functional, but they can also be attractive and provide a pleasing illumination.

As with any other lighting source, the main reason for using fluorescent bulbs is to provide illumination. With large open spaces, the source of the illumination is often this type of lighting fixture. The chains or cords are utilized to bring the fixture closer to the worker or customer's level. Illumination is the best way to make products look attractive and to improve the workspace of employees during night shifts.

Using fluorescent fixtures offers several advantages. The cost of operation is much lower than for incandescent bulbs. The light tubes are inexpensive to produce. Ballast is the component which is more expensive. However, the tubes are long-lived. A range of colors are available, including everything from warm white tones to cool white. Use of the fixtures offers diffused lighting. The illumination is general and even. Unlike incandescent bulbs, there are no shadows created.

Although there are three major categories of fluorescent lamps, they have common characteristics as well. There are similarities in the construction of cold cathode lamps and hot cathode lamps. The third category is that of electroluminescent lamps which are different from the other two. All three styles use phosphors which are activated by electron beams, in order to provide light.

The hot cathode is the most common type of lamp. It has a glass tube which contain argon, or other inert gas under low pressure. On each side of the tube is a tungsten electrode with a ballast which regulates the power (alternating current) to the electrode. The popular size is four feet in length and emits 40 watts. Ballasts can be either magnetic or electronic, with the electronic type favored today, due to lower production cost and less material needed.

The cold cathode lamp is also available. The main difference between it and the hot cathode lamp is the coating on the interior of the lamp. Originally this device was not intended as a light source. It also contains gas. The electrodes are attached to either end of the bulb.

The third category of lights is called electroluminescent or EL. Alternatively, they are designated high field electroluminescent lamps. In this category of lamps, electrical energy is converted into lighting with no heat. The electrical current is run through phosphor, which illuminates the space. The form of EL bulbs can be produced in various ways.

The lamps are made more attractive by adding decorative covers. The covers help to further diffuse the light and remove any glare or strong shadows. Although a long straight bulb is the most common style of lamp, it is being joined by other shapes and lengths in order to meet specific needs in the commercial area. For lower energy usage and functional lighting, the fluorescent lamps represent the best option.




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