Types Of Fluorescent Lights

While there are multiple types of led and fluorescent tube lights the three most common are t12 t8 and t5.

Types of fluorescent lights.

All fluorescent lamps use the same technology but there are several different variations and sizes. In a fluorescent tube the electric current passes between the cathodes exciting mercury and other gasses which are filled. There are two different break downs of fluorescent light fixture ballast types as we explain here. There are three distinctive fluorescent light bulb types.

The t stands for tubular and the numbers are an index for the diameter in inches of the tube. Why do some light bulbs buzz. Each one has different strengths and weaknesses. Hotels commercial office buildings grocery stores healthcare facilities warehouses parking garages and more all use fluorescent lighting.

The fluorescent bulbs are more complex than the incandescent bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs including cfl bulbs contain mercury as do metal or ceramic halide bulbs mercury vapor bulbs neon and high pressure sodium bulbs. T4 t5 t8 and t12. Rapid start lamps are the most popular fluorescent lamp type used in commercial applications such as office buildings.

T12 t8 and t5. Linear fluorescent tubes are the most common type of fluorescent lamps. The terminology comes from t for tubular and the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch so t8 represents a tube of 8 8ths of an inch or 1 inch. Electronic ballasts ballast designs using different lamp starting strategies.

So in most cases you won t have to physically measure the tube s diameter and length. Which types are known for this. Compact fluorescent lights cfls and leds have a lower wattage than incandescent bulbs but emit the same light output. Tip never exceed the maximum wattage recommended for your lamp or fixture.

To learn more about what cool and warm means in terms of the color quality of light sources see color metrics. There are 4 different fluorescent light options.