fluorescents
outshine their high-intensity discharge competitors. They are often
more efficient and feature lower lumen depreciation rates, better
dimming options, instant start-up, and better color
rendition.High-intensity-discharge (HID) light sources, such as
metal halide and high-pressure sodium lamps, have long dominated
the market for lighting indoor spaces with high ceilings. These
"high-bay" spaces are typically found in warehouses, factories,
large retail stores, and athletic facilities. In recent years,
however, improvements in fluorescent lighting technology have
resulted in the emergence of new high-intensity fluorescent
fixtures, which are superior to HID fixtures in numerous ways.
Combining thin fluorescent tubes (5/8 inch) with electronic
ballasts and highly efficient reflective fixtures, high-intensity
fluorescent systems are often more efficient than comparable HID
systems. Furthermore, they feature lower lumen depreciation rates,
better dimming options, virtually instant start-up and restrike,
and better color rendition. These additional benefits are so
compelling that designers may specify high-intensity fluorescent
systems even if they save no energy at all. HID manufacturers are
improving their products as well. For example, new lamp and ballast
designs make HIDs more efficient and faster starting. New reflector
designs are making HID fixtures much more efficient as well.
However, until HID manufacturers make dramatic improvements in
start-up times and lumen depreciation rates, fluorescents will
continue to be advantageous in a variety of applications.
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