Workplace

Thermal Considerations

Ambient Temperature Conversion Chart:

Celsius	Fahrenheit
25°	77°
40°	104°
55°	131°
65°	149°

Thermal Characteristics of a Fluorescent Lamp:

Fluorescent sources are sensitive to temperature extremes. Optimum light output for most fluorescent lamps occurs when the bulb wall temperature is 100° F. Any temperature above or below optimum reduces light output.

Fluorescent Ballast Performance:

	Magnetic	Electronic
Typical nomenclature	ES	GEB
Lamp types	T12, T8	T12, T8
Typical LPW w/ T8 lamps (4' length)	72	86
Frequency operation	60Hz	20-25KHz
Causes Stroboscopic effect?	Yes, moderate	No
Sound rating	A – D	A+
Operating temperature ratio	Base	12% cooler
Typical Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)	15 – 30%	<=20%
Allowable line voltage variation the ballast can withstand and still properly operate the lamp	± 7.5%	± 10% - ± 25%
*Cold weather starting versions available?*	*Yes*	*Yes*
*Suitable for high ambient temperatures?*	No	No

HID Ballast Performance:

Temperature has a tremendous effect on the life expectancy of a ballast and its related components. Therefore, it is important not to exceed the maximum ambient rating of the fixture. Operating a fixture in environments that are cooler than its rated ambient temperature will greatly increase ballast life. It is generally accepted that for every 13° C drop below the fixture's rated ambient temperature, the life of the ballast doubles. Capacitor life is doubled when ambient temperatures drop 10° C below rating.