Neon Lamps

Neon Lamps

what is neon lamp ?

A neon lamp is a particular kind of gas discharge lamp that burns low pressure mixtures of neon gas and other gases like argon or helium.

The gas inside the lamp is ionised and emits light when an electric current is introduced to it.

Neon lamps were invented at the beginning of the 20th century, and by the middle of the century, they were widely used for exhibits and signs.

They are still utilised in modern times for both decorative lighting and technological gadget indicators.

The color of the light emitted by a neon lamp depends on the gas mixture and the voltage applied.

Whereas argon emits a blue-violet light, neon emits a vivid red-orange light.

By adjusting the gas mixture and voltage, a variety of colors can be produced.

💥 It is cold cathode lamp 

💥 Operating voltage is low – 110 V AC or 150 V DC 

💥 It consists of glass envelope with electrode and filled with Neon gas along with small amount         of  Helium 

💥 Gives Orange – Pink radiation 

💥 By varying the composition of glass and adding different substances different colours (like             O,R,G,Y) etc. Can be produced. 

💥 Efficacy varies from 50 Lu/W (Red) to 65 Lu/W (Green).

💥 Normally used as indicators, night lamps, determination of DC polarity etc.

Neon Sign Tubes

💢 The length of the lamp may be varied (up to nearly 9m.) and even may be bent in any desired         shape. It is called Neon Sign Tube. 

💢 Comparatively higher operating voltage 

💢 Starting Starting purpose purpose striking striking value is nearly 1.5 times 

💢 Step up transformer with high leakage reactance is used for starting voltage. Drooping                  characteristics helps in reduced running voltage. 

💢 Sometimes UV radiation and Fluorescence principle is used. Hence called Cold Cathode                 Fluorescent Lamp (CCFL) 

💢 Mainly used in advertising and decorative purposes.