Fluorescent switching vs lifespan

[mivey]

In general the 8' have a lower life rating than the 4'. The slope of the curve is similar to the other lamps, for the most part.

The heating of the element does seem to help maintain life with the shorter cycle times. The RS seem to have a longer life than the IS for shorter burn cycles.

 

[mivey]

Switching & ballasts:

Controls that switch lamps on and off excessively can reduce fluorescent12 and HID lamp life. Increased cycling does not decrease ballast life or reliability. The actual service life of lamps can be extended by the elimination of unnecessary burning hours.

 

[johnny watt]

http://ecmweb.com/mag/electric_ballasts_correctly/
Program-start type ballasts, which provide optimum starting conditions, can provide as many as 100,000 starts, and the lamps last 50% longer. This design applies cathode heat for a precise time prior to lamp ignition and then removes it once the lamp has ignited. At least one manufacturer provides a program-start ballast for T5 HO lamps.

I?m curious? how long have program start ballasts been a practical option. (Reasonably available and reasonably priced.)

 

[steve66]

Can anyone tell me if modern fluorescent tubes and or electronic ballasts are adversely impacted by excessive switching? The issue is, will motion sensors on individual fixtures lead to reduced tube or ballast life expectancy?

Yes, it does for instant start ballasts. If you are using motion sensors, you want rapid start, or program start ballasts. (It can take a second or two for these to come on.)

Steve

 

[Don S.]

Programmed start

Programmed start

Appreciate all feedback, Mr. Bill's link provided excellent information