11.5.16 Lamp Characteristics

Selection of a lamp involves evaluating its optical control, efficiency, lamp color rendition, lamp life, cost, and maintenance.  The following is a summary of the characteristics of typical lamp types. 

11.5.16.1   INCANDESCENT

This lamp type has the most pleasing color of all light sources.  However, low efficiency and short life span limit its use except in special areas where its warm color-strengthening characteristics are required.

  • Superior color rendition.

  • Inexpensive.

  • Good optical control.

  • Short life span.

  • Lowest efficiency.

11.5.16.2    HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM

This light source is very efficient, relatively long lived, with a high lighting level.  The light color is in the pink to orange range, which is not particularly flattering to plants or people.

  • Poor color rendition.

  • Broad application.

  • Low maintenance.

  • Superior optical control.

  • Superior life span.

  • Excellent efficiency.

  • Expensive.

11.5.16.3   LOW PRESSURE SODIUM 

  • Poor color rendition.

  • Good efficiency.

  • Superior life span.

  • Expensive.

11.5.16.4 FLUORESCENT

  • Good color rendition.

  • Poor optical control.

  • Good life span.

  • Good efficiency in mild climates.

  • Produces glare.

11.5.16.5 METAL HALIDE

Metal halide is between mercury vapor and high-pressure sodium in both efficiency and longevity.  It has good color rendition and is not psychologically offensive to people.

  • Superior color rendition.

  • Superior optical control.

  • Efficiency better than mercury vapor but poorer than pressure sodium.

  • Expensive.

11.5.16.6 MERCURY VAPOR

The mercury vapor lamp is longer lived than any other high intensity discharge source mentioned here.  However, it is not as efficient as the high-pressure sodium and it produces lower lighting levels.  The color of the light produced is bluish to greenish and not complimentary to people or plants, although it is not as offensive as high-pressure sodium light.  Color corrected mercury vapor is even less offensive and should be used instead of mercury vapor.  Mercury Vapor lamps are being phased out at Fort Carson.  Fort Carson no longer stocks this type of lamp for replacement.

  • Good color rendition.

  • Good foliage lighting.

  • Good life span.

  • Good efficiency.

  • Inexpensive.

See 11.6.1.2 Electrical Frequently Asked Questions for a list of bulbs currently stocked at Fort Carson.  All new light fixtures specified should use a bulb from this list.

  
 

Lighting Installation