E.O. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
APPLICATION OF TECHNOLOGY:
- Lighting
- Compact fluorescent fixtures
ADVANTAGES:
- Increase light output
- Improved energy efficiency
- Improved fixture and lamp cooling
ABSTRACT:
Berkeley Lab researchers have developed an inexpensive design that increase compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) efficiency and light output. Consumer acceptance of CFLs in recent years has driven sales of CFL screw base retrofit lamps. Many residential applications of the integral ballast screw base CFL, such as table and floor lamps, require a base-down orientation. Positioning CFLs base-down generally results in a 10-25% loss in lumen output, due to excess mercury vapor pressure in the lamp. These losses in output may limit consumers' acceptance of new CFLs as a viable retrofit strategy. Berkeley Lab researchers are developing thermal bridge systems--small copper heat sinks that fit entirely within the integral ballast compartment--to recover losses in lumen output. Lamps equipped with Berkeley Lab's environmentally sound thermal bridge systems put out approximately the same amount of light regardless of orientation.
STATUS: US Patent #5,717,277/ Available for licensing
REFERENCE NUMBER: IB-909, 931
