Induction Lighting: Q & A

Q. What is induction lighting?
A. An induction lamp is based upon the same light generation technology as fluorescent lamps but incorporates the use of wireless radio frequencies (RF) rather than electrodes.

Q. Why is induction considered superior to HID systems such as mercury vapor, high pressure sodium, and metal halide?
A. (1) Induction systems offer five to ten times the life of typical HID systems.
(2) The high quality white light produced by induction (CRI=80+) makes colors appear brighter, more vibrant, and more attractive than does HID light.
(3) With fewer lamp changes over the life of the system, the savings in maintenance costs alone will more than offset the additional cost of the system.

Q. What is included in an induction system?
A. There are basically three components: The driver/generator (or ballast), the power coupler, and the lamp.

Q. How long do the lamps last?
A. Most induction lamps are rated at 100,000 hours of useful life.

Q. What type of gas is inside the lamp?
A. Primarily argon.

Q. Do induction lamps contain mercury?
A. All fluorescent and HID lamps contain small amounts of mercury necessary for operation of the light-generating process inside the lamp.

Q. Since the system uses radio frequencies will it generate interference affecting my computers and other electronic devices?
A. No. The system runs at 250KHz in compliance with FCC rules and produces no interference under normal circumstances.

Q. Is the system affected by vibration?
A. No. By having no electrodes induction systems are essentially vibration-free, making them more reliable in high-vibration and gusty environments such as tunnels, bridges, and outdoor signage.

Q. How is performance affected by input voltage fluctuations?
A. The generator contains a built-in pre-conditioner to modify to (+/- 20V), providing a stable internal supply voltage. The resulting light output should vary by less than 2% due to voltage fluctuations.

Special Thanks to U.S. Lighting Tech for this information