Design Of Electric Discharge Tubes For Lighting

Design Of Electric Discharge Tubes For Lighting

Electric discharge tubes for lighting, commonly referred to as fluorescent tubes, are a type of gas-discharge lamp that uses electricity to excite gas molecules and produce visible light. This technology was first discovered by Nikola Tesla in the late 19th century and brought to commercial use by General Electric in the 1930s. The tubes are composed of a long, thin glass cylinder containing low-pressure mercury vapor and are coated with a fluorescent material that emits visible light when struck by ultraviolet radiation. To design a high-quality electric discharge tube for lighting, several criteria must be considered. First, the tube's dimensions must be carefully chosen to optimize its light output, energy efficiency, and operating lifespan. The tube's length is a critical factor since it determines the wavelength of light produced and influences the tube's electrical characteristics. The tube's diameter is also an important consideration since it affects its luminous flux and its resistance to breakage. The tube's internal design is also crucial to its performance. The gas mixture used in the tube should be selected to maximize its efficiency and minimize its environmental impact. The electrode material and geometry must be carefully chosen to ensure efficient electrical discharge and long-term reliability. The fluorescent coating must also be carefully matched to the gas mixture and electrode geometry to produce the desired color temperature, color rendering, and luminous flux. Finally, the tube's exterior design must be optimized for ease of installation, aesthetics, and safety. A high-quality electric discharge tube should be compatible with a range of fixtures and ballasts, and it should be easy to replace when needed. The tube should also be designed with safety in mind to minimize the risk of breakage, electrical shock, or fire. In conclusion, designing a high-quality electric discharge tube for lighting requires careful consideration of its dimensions, internal design, and exterior design. By optimizing these factors, designers can create tubes that offer efficient, long-lasting, and safe lighting solutions.

Electric discharge tubes, Gas-discharge lamps, Fluorescent tubes, Ultraviolet radiation, Luminous flux

— Matthew Anderson

CITATION : "Matthew Anderson. 'Design Of Electric Discharge Tubes For Lighting.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=356689 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"