Each of us, when choosing lamps, has noticed more than once that there are simply a huge number of them - different designs, power, a socle of different shapes and much more. So, sometimes you think about whether or not to buy some new lamp, because, according to the manufacturer, there is no harm from it, and it saves electricity, and it shines quite brightly. Let's look a little bit at what types of bulbs exist and how they differ from each other. We also talk about which are more and which are less harmful to health.
General information
Currently, a large number of different lighting lamps are on the market. The price between the cheapest and most expensive can vary significantly. At the same time, consumer and technological properties of the product vary. In principle, sometimes it doesn’t make much sense to buy a too expensive lamp, but it happens that it is simply necessary. In any case, a lot depends on the operating conditions. For example, at elevated ambient temperatures, some lamps are used, others are used at high moisture levels, others are used in frost, and so on. To date, the following types of bulbs exist:
- incandescent;
- luminescent;
- halogen;
- LED light.
Let's look at each group and find out how they differ from each other. Without a doubt, there is something to talk about.
Incandescent lamps
These are perhaps the most common and popular lamps. It can be said that for a long time, they were out of competition in the market. However, now the situation has changed somewhat, but we will not talk about that. The power of such lamps ranges from 15 to 300 watts, and the shape can be different. Today they are represented by two varieties: these are krypton and bi-spiral. Krypton incandescent lamps use krypton gas. The power of such products is usually not higher than 100 watts and not lower than 40. Of the advantages, good light output can be distinguished.
The second variety is bi-spiral lamps. They give light due to the tungsten filament, which has an arched shape. Usually the surface of the lamps is made transparent, but there are also mirror and opal. It makes sense to say that the matting somewhat impairs light output, but at the same time makes the light more diffused. With such lighting, our eyes feel most comfortable and do not get tired. Now let's look at other types of bulbs. At first - about the most popular.
Fluorescent lamps
In recent years, fluorescent lamps have become widespread. They have a number of significant advantages. Their power ranges from 8 to 80 watts. The principle of operation of the lamp is based on exposure to phosphors of ultraviolet radiation in a gas environment. It is safe to say that any kind of light bulbs of this type is pleasing to the eye, as they give diffused and soft light.
Currently, fluorescent lamps are the main competitor to incandescent lamps. They are several times more economical. At the same time, with the same power, the luminous flux of fluorescent lamps is about 6-8 times higher. We can say that their service life varies. In our case, it is about 10-20 times higher. By the way, there are drawbacks that are inherent in all such lamps: firstly, they are sensitive to temperature changes, and secondly, they often flicker due to a drop in electricity.
Types of energy-saving light bulbs
We have already examined fluorescent lamps, and now let's talk about halogen bulbs. A key feature of such products is that they are very bright. It should be understood that they come in various shapes. So, in some cases it is possible to achieve scattered light, in others - concentrated. It is also worth noting that such lamps are very small, for this simple reason they are extremely popular in the design of the room, as they are inconspicuous and at the same time quite bright.
It is worth paying attention to the fact that all types of energy-saving light bulbs, in particular halogen ones, do not tolerate the touch of human hands. This is due to the fact that a small amount of fat will remain on the surface, which in any case is present on the fingers and palms. When you turn on the lamp heats up intensively and a black spot appears on the spot of fat, and this significantly reduces the resource, on average by 30-50%, it is impossible to say more precisely. With proper operation , the service life of these lamps is at an altitude, however, sometimes there is a problem with contacts, which often burn.
Pro LED Lighting
All types of LED bulbs are considered economical. We can say that they consume really little electricity, usually 50% less incandescent lamps. Agree, with the same light intensity, this is just an excellent result. Such lamps have not only high light output, but also a long service life. In fact, all this makes such lamps unique in their way, and this is true. True, the voltage drops in the network adversely affect the LEDs, which will instantly burn out.
Recently, interesting models of fixtures began to appear on the market. Their main feature is the autonomy of the product. They turn on after dark and run on solar panels or conventional batteries. In addition, the lamps are not afraid of either low or too high temperature. Their performance will not be impaired.
What is a cap?
In short, the cap is a structural element of the lamp, which makes it possible to install it in the cartridge. But since some types of lamps do not provide for a classic cartridge, then the base, in fact, may be absent. In addition, it is used as a transmitter of electricity between the network and the lamp itself. Of course, the base is often made of metal, but in some cases it is made of ceramic. The outer part of the product contains contacts, and the inner - filaments and electrodes.
It must be understood that each lamp has its own type of cartridge, so only certain bulbs can be installed there. Types of socles are divided into threaded and pin. Threaded (screw) is more common in everyday life, however, for example, halogen lamps most often have a pin base. That is why before buying, always inspect the labeling of the bulb. The types of socles can be learned to distinguish by letter on the case: G - pin base, E - threaded and so on.
Edisson pin and base
The pin base is usually equipped with halogen and LED lamps. We can confidently say that this is a very popular and effective solution that allows not only to instantly replace a burned out lamp, but also significantly reduce its dimensions. In this case, a pair of metal pins provides good contact. But it is imperative that the nest where the base is inserted is tight. If it is loose, the lamp will constantly go off, but there is nothing good in it.
In principle, all types of light bulbs can work from such a cap, exceptions are only gas discharge. Edisson's base (screw) is the most reliable and common. It provides excellent contact and fits all household lamps and chandeliers, as it is standardized. This is the best price / quality ratio solution.
Something about lamp holders
The most common lampholder for electric lamps is E27. It is used for incandescent, LED and sometimes halogen lamps. In second place is E14, which differs from the above in smaller diameter and thread. Usually low-power lamps are placed on it. As a material for the manufacture of ceramics and special plastic. The latter is less preferable, since due to high temperatures it can be destroyed, emit hazardous gases and serve as a subject of ignition. In Soviet times, the same types of bulbs for bulbs were used, but they were somewhat better. In any case, for normal operation it is not recommended to install more powerful lamps than it should, since this will lead to the destruction of the cartridge.
And more about the lamps
We have already examined with you the main types of bulbs and types of socles. I would like to note that it is not recommended to buy non-standard lamps. This is due to the fact that they are difficult to install in a cartridge. Moreover, they can fail, and it is difficult to find a replacement for them, and a suitable cartridge is even more difficult. You need to understand that all types of automotive bulbs of category H, and any other, are not used in everyday life, but they can be installed in the garage for additional lighting, etc.
Conclusion
So we examined the most interesting with you. Now you know what types of halogen bulbs, incandescent, fluorescent and others are. You need to understand that sometimes it is advisable to use one, and in other cases - others. So, often many types of diode bulbs are not used as the main lighting. They are suitable for highlighting dark places, etc. Nevertheless, some models are quite powerful and act as not only alternative, but also the main lighting. In principle, this is all that can be said about modern lamps, socles and cartridges for them.