Normally a 1.5 inch diameter (T12) fluorescent lamp has approximately 1 - 1.25 grams of the phosphor per foot of lamp. A standard four-foot lamp has about 4 - 5 grams of the phosphor coating its inside length. The one-inch diameter (T8) lamp would have proportionally less phosphor due to its smaller size.

Mercury

Mercury is present in small amounts in all fluorescent lamps. The overall fleet average for all GE fluorescent lamps has been reduced by more than 75% since 1990 due to significant investments in new manufacturing technology. The amount of mercury present in any given lamp will vary depending on both the size of the lamp and the design life of the lamp. Smaller, shorter life lamps generally have lower mercury content.

III. Health Concerns

Phosphor

Except for small changes, it is essentially the same phosphor that has been in use in our lamps for over fifty years. The Industrial Hygiene Foundation of the Mellon Institute found no significant adverse effects, either by ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, or eye implant, in a five-year animal study of the original phosphor. Also, there have been no significant adverse effects on humans by any of these routes during the many years of its manufacture or use. The phosphor is somewhat similar to the inert mineral apatites (calcium phosphate-fluorides) that occur in nature.

Antimony, manganese, yttrium and tin compounds are characterized by OSHA as hazardous chemicals, as are most inorganic compounds. However, due to their insolubility, relatively low toxicity and small amount present in the phosphor and the lamp, these materials do not present a significant hazard in the event of breakage of the lamp.

Barium and cadmium had also been used as additives to the phosphor in lamps made prior to mid- 1988 but are no longer used in the phosphor in current production. These materials are also considered hazardous chemicals. In addition, although the evidence is limited and conflicting, cadmium and certain cadmium compounds have been listed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as possible human carcinogens.

Mercury

Neither the mercury nor the phosphor concentration in air produced as a result of breaking one or a small number of fluorescent lamps should result in significant exposures to the individual. However, when breaking a large number of lamps for disposal, appropriate industrial hygiene monitoring and controls should be implemented to minimize airborne levels or surface contamination. We recommend that the work be done in a well-ventilated area, and local exhaust ventilation or personal protective equipment may be needed.

IV. Disposal Concerns

TCLP

A Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) conducted on traditional fluorescent lamp designs for mercury would most likely cause the lamps to be classified as a hazardous waste due to the mercury content. While small numbers of these lamps placed in ordinary trash may not appreciably affect the nature or method of disposal of the trash, under most circumstances disposal of large quantities may be regulated. You should review your waste handling practices to assure that you dispose of waste lamps properly and contact your state environmental department for any regulations that may apply. To check state regulations or to locate a recycler, go to www.lamprecycle.org. Reduced mercury fluorescent lamps that consistently pass the TCLP test are available and marketed under the Ecolux trade name. For more information on Ecolux fluorescent lamps visit www.gelighting.comT .

August 2004

Fluorescent Lamps-MSD

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GE 10186, T12, T8 manual III. Health Concerns, IV. Disposal Concerns, Mercury
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10186, T8, T12 specifications

General Electric (GE) has long been synonymous with innovation in lighting technology, particularly with its fluorescent lighting products. Among its offerings, GE 10186, T8, and T12 lighting tubes stand out for their unique features, distinctive technologies, and operational characteristics, catering to various commercial and industrial applications.

The GE 10186 is a specific model of fluorescent tube that embodies the company's commitment to energy efficiency and longevity. This model is known for its high color rendering index (CRI), delivering vibrant and accurate color representation, which is crucial in environments like art galleries and retail stores. The 10186 is designed to provide high lumen output while consuming less energy than traditional incandescent fixtures, making it an environmentally friendly choice. The tube also has a rated life that typically exceeds 20,000 hours, reducing the frequency and costs associated with replacements.

In contrast, the T8 fluorescent tubes are characterized by their 1-inch diameter, which is smaller compared to the older T12 tubes that measure 1.5 inches. T8 tubes have become increasingly popular due to their higher energy efficiency and improved lighting performance. They are available in various lengths and wattages, making them versatile for different lighting applications. The T8 technology often incorporates electronic ballasts, further enhancing energy savings and performance stability, as these ballasts reduce flickering and hum often associated with older magnetic ballasts used with T12s.

T12 tubes, while still used in some applications, are gradually being phased out in favor of more efficient alternatives like T8 and T5 tubes. T12s typically consume more energy and have a lower lumen output compared to T8 and T5 configurations. However, they do possess certain advantages, such as ease of replacement in existing fixtures and a warmer light quality that some users prefer.

Both T8 and T12 tubes can come in different light color temperatures, ranging from warm white to cool white, allowing for flexibility in creating the desired ambiance and functionality in a given space. Additionally, the advancements in phosphor technology used in these tubes have significantly improved their light output, efficiency, and lifespan.

In conclusion, GE 10186, T8, and T12 fluorescent tubes showcase a blend of efficiency, performance, and adaptability. While T8 has become the standard in many modern lighting systems, understanding the characteristics and applications of these different tubes is essential for making informed lighting decisions in various environments. With a focus on energy efficiency and performance, GE continues to lead the way in lighting innovation.
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