metallshalogenlampor

Metalhalogenlampor, also known as metal halide lamps, are high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting fixtures that use an electric arc to ionize a mixture of mercury vapor and metal halide salts. The metal halide component typically includes salts of aluminium, zinc, or other metals, which vaporise and emit spectral lines that enhance color rendering and brightness. The lamp glass is sealed in a quartz envelope and filled with a controlled amount of argon pressure to aid in starting and stability.

The operating principle involves a ballast that provides initial current to start the arc. Once the arc is established, the lamp emits a bright, white to slightly yellow light with a higher colour‑rendering index (CRI) than traditional sodium or mercury lamps. Because the metal halide produces additional visible light via the excitation of the metal vapour, these lamps achieve luminous efficacies around 100 lm/W, far surpassing incandescent sources and offering better spectral quality for horticulture, sports venues and commercial lighting.

Installation requires careful control of ballast type and lamp voltage. Metalhalogenlampor have relatively long life cycles, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 hours, but the lamps exhibit a noticeable warm‑up period of 20–30 seconds. They are also prone to flicker if the ballast is improperly matched. Environmental considerations include the use of mercury, which mandates careful disposal and recycling procedures. Many modern systems incorporate sintered silver or tungsten filaments to improve durability, yet the fundamental metal halide chemistry remains unchanged.

Applications of metalhalogenlampor span from outdoor street lighting and large indoor arenas to horticultural grow‑lights where the broader spectrum promotes plant growth. The lamps can also be used in theatrical lighting when high colour fidelity and intensity are required. Compared with newer LEDs, metalhalogenlampor deliver strong spectral output at a lower cost, but they are progressively being superseded in many markets due to energy efficiency goals and stricter mercury regulations.