Naked Science Forum

General Science => General Science => Topic started by: Etsike on 18/01/2010 19:16:10

Title: Do halogen bulbs need cooling?
Post by: Etsike on 18/01/2010 19:16:10

Well, I have one of these DIY projectors, but a bit more powerful type. Heart of it is 1000W Halogen bulb (220V, GX6,35 socket) and as you know, it's hot, very hot when burning. Question is, do I have to cool the bulb itself so that it wouldn't break or halogen bulbs can't overheat and brake just because of their own heat and I only have to cool other heat-sensitive components?
Maybe I answered myself already but I would like to hear another opinion.

Title: Do halogen bulbs need cooling?
Post by: litespeed on 18/01/2010 19:32:13

Halogen light applications are designed to include adequate cooling. However, because they are so hot, the bulbs need to be entirely clean of any contaminants. If you install one and leave oily fingerprints on it, it will overheat and fail.

Title: Do halogen bulbs need cooling?
Post by: SeanB on 21/01/2010 19:10:22

Although the lamp operates at high temperature, it will require cooling to operate properly. Almost all high power projector lamps are forced air cooled, and the manufacturer generally has the specifications for the airflow, direction and other info. Failing to do this will result in a very short lamp life, or the lamp melting or exploding during operation.