Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)
Introduction
A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact fluorescent light or energy saving light (or less commonly as a compact fluorescent tube), is a type of fluorescent lamp. Many CFLs are designed to replace an incandescent lamp and can fit into most existing light fixtures formerly used for incandescents.[1]
Features of Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)
A CFL can be seen as an advanced version of a fluorescent lamp. The salient features of it are: It consists of a gas-filled glass tube with two electrodes mounted in an end cap. It contains a low-pressure mix of argon gas, mercury vapour, and liquid mercury, and is coated on the inside with three different phosphorous substances. The electrodes provide a stream of electrons to the lamp and the ballast controls the current and voltage flowing into the assembly. The ballast, in general an electronic circuit, may be attached directly to the lamp, or may be remotely connected.
CFLs are compact and are ideal for use in homes, work areas, schools, workshops, etc. They are more energy-efficient than incandescent light bulbs using between one third and one fifth of the energy.Modern CFLs typically last at least six times as long and use at most a quarter of the power of an equivalent incandescent bulb.[2] They are sensitive to the ambient temperatures, just like the standard fluorescent lamps.
The life of a CFL is significantly shorter if it is used only for a few minutes at a time. Lab tests demonstrated that lifespan can be reduced down to 15% in the case of a 5 minute on/off cycle.
Further Information
