Ballastverlichting

Ballastverlichting refers to the system that provides and regulates the electrical current for gas‑discharge lamps, such as fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, through a ballast device. The ballast limits current, supplies the starter or igniter voltage, and stabilizes the lamp during operation. A ballast installation typically includes the ballast unit, wiring, connectors, and, where relevant, a starter or igniter. Ballasts can be magnetic (inductive) or electronic (switch‑mode).

Magnetic ballasts are simple and robust but tend to be bulkier and less energy‑efficient, with poorer power factor. Electronic ballasts are compact, more efficient, and often offer improved power factor, reduced flicker, and dimming capabilities. Some modern systems use electronic ballasts with integrated igniters, and many installations in commercial and industrial lighting have shifted toward electronic drivers. In LED lighting, traditional ballasts are often replaced by dedicated LED drivers, though retrofit kits and hybrid solutions sometimes retain ballast terminology.

Applications and safety considerations vary by environment. Ballastverlichting is common in offices, schools, factories, and public spaces, and in hazardous or outdoor settings it may require explosion‑proof or weatherproof enclosures. Standards and safety requirements, such as those from IEC or EN, govern insulation, grounding, overheating protection, and compatibility with connected luminaires. Proper installation, including correct wattage, thermal management, and wiring practices, is essential to prevent lamp damage, electrical faults, or fire risk.

Historically, magnetic ballasts dominated mid‑20th century lighting, with electronic ballasts gaining prominence from the 1980s onward due to efficiency and performance benefits. In many new installations, especially with the rise of LED technology, ballast use has diminished, though the term remains in use in reference to legacy systems and certain retrofit applications.