《Compact fluorescent lamp》.doc

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Low-energy light-bulb redirects here. For other low-energy bulbs, see Solid-state lighting. Tubular-type compact fluorescent lamp is one of the most popular types among European consumers. A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact fluorescent light or energy saving light (or less commonly as a compact fluorescent tube [CFT]), 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. Compared to general service incandescent lamps giving the same amount of visible light, CFLs generally use less power, have a longer rated life, but a higher purchase price. In the United States, a CFL can save over 30 US$ in electricity costs over the lamps life time compared to an incandescent lamp and save 2,000 times its own weight in greenhouse gases.[1] Like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain mercury, which complicates their disposal. CFLs radiate a different light spectrum from that of incandescent lamps. Improved phosphor formulations have improved the subjective color of the light emitted by CFLs such that some sources rate the best soft white CFLs as subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps.[2] Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Construction 2.1 Parts 2.2 Integrated CFLs 2.3 Non-integrated CFLs 2.4 CFL power sources 3 Health issues 4 Comparison with incandescent lamps 4.1 Lifespan 4.2 Energy efficiency 4.2.1 Efficacy and efficiency 4.3 Cost 4.4 Starting time 5 Comparison with alternative technologies 6 Other CFL technologies 7 Spectrum of light 8 Environmental issues 8.1 Energy savings 8.2 Mercury emissions 8.2.1 Broken and discarded lamps 8.2.2 Mercury poisoning of Chinese factory workers 9 Design and application issues 10 Efforts to encourage adoption 10.1 Labeling programs 11 See also 12 Notes and references 13 External links [edit] History An earl