Philips Electromagnetic Lamp manual Non-standard supply voltages, Maintenance, 154

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3.21 Non-standard supply voltages

Non-standard supply voltages

In combination with the correct gear, fluorescent lamps can function perfectly on a wide range of supply voltages.The luminaire itself is not limited to certain supply voltages either.

For non-standard voltages appropriate gear components should be selected:

-Ballasts have to be designed for the proper supply voltage and frequency and for the chosen lamp type. So ballasts for a mains supply frequency of 50 Hz are different from those for 60 Hz, even if the mains voltage and the lamp type are the same. If the desired ballast type is not in the standard Philips range, information can be obtained from the local Philips organisation.

-Starters are related to lamp type, ballast and supply voltage.The Philips range of starters cannot be used for other voltages than those for which they are specified.All starters are suited for 50 and 60 Hz.

-Capacitors are specified by their voltage and capacitance (in µF).As long as the voltage is lower than the marked capacitor voltage, the capacitor can be used.There is no difference in the capacitor for

50 or 60 Hz supply voltage frequency.The necessary capacitance can be calculated and is, for example in the case of parallel compensation, 5/6 smaller for 60 Hz supplies than for 50 Hz supplies.

-Filter coils are related to a capacitance (in µF) and a frequency.As long as the power supply voltage is lower than the marked filter coil voltage, the filter coil can be used.

-In large lighting installations, in most cases there is a possibility to transform the non-standard voltage centrally into a standard voltage. In small projects a local solution has to be found.

-If the power supply voltage for fluorescent lamp circuits is generated by a separate motor/generator set (e.g. for emergency lighting), special attention must be paid to the right choice of the generator/ alternator type. Not all types of generators can correctly handle the changing power factor and/or the harmonics in the phase and neutral current. Minimum requirements can be supplied on request.

3 22 Maintenance

Gear components are in fact designed to be maintenance-free. Regularly checking the tightness of the screw terminals can prevent problems caused by open circuits or sparking. Loose mounting screws at the ballasts can cause hum. In very dusty surroundings the ballast can become overheated and should be cleaned.

It is advisable to renew the glow-switch starter(s) at the moment of lamp replacement.

The voltage required for ionization during the starting process may be affected by dirty lamps, excessive moisture or a combination of both. In installations with considerable dust accumulation, the lamps have to be cleaned regularly for reliable starting.Also clean the equipment at lamp replacement.

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