The terminology comes from t for tubular and the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch so t8 represents a tube of 8 8ths of an inch or 1 inch.
Types of fluorescent lights.
All fluorescent lamps use the same technology but there are several different variations and sizes.
The t stands for tubular and the numbers are an index for the diameter in inches of the tube.
Tip never exceed the maximum wattage recommended for your lamp or fixture.
Fluorescent bulbs including cfl bulbs contain mercury as do metal or ceramic halide bulbs mercury vapor bulbs neon and high pressure sodium bulbs.
Compact fluorescent lights cfls and leds have a lower wattage than incandescent bulbs but emit the same light output.
T12 t8 and t5.
Which types of light bulbs contain mercury.
Most tube lighting will have its size mentioned on an end of the tube.
To learn more about what cool and warm means in terms of the color quality of light sources see color metrics.
Buzzing in light bulbs is caused by an interruption in the current.
There are two different break downs of fluorescent light fixture ballast types as we explain here.
In a fluorescent tube the electric current passes between the cathodes exciting mercury and other gasses which are filled.
Rapid start lamps are the most popular fluorescent lamp type used in commercial applications such as office buildings.
T4 t5 t8 and t12.
There are 4 different fluorescent light options.
Each one has different strengths and weaknesses.
Linear fluorescent tubes are the most common type of fluorescent lamps.
Which types are known for this.
While there are multiple types of led and fluorescent tube lights the three most common are t12 t8 and t5.
So in most cases you won t have to physically measure the tube s diameter and length.
Hotels commercial office buildings grocery stores healthcare facilities warehouses parking garages and more all use fluorescent lighting.
There are three distinctive fluorescent light bulb types.