LED tube lights are a modern lighting innovation designed specifically to replace fluorescent tube fixtures. Based on the same design features and effective integration options they are also called retrofit LED tubes.
Retrofit LED tubes are designed to retrofit T8 and T12 fluorescent light fixtures. Their structure specifications make them highly compatible with a number of old fixtures which operate solely for fluorescent tube lights.
Structure of LED tubes:
Shape:
Led tubes are linear tubes apparently the same size of that of fluorescent tubes with one end having wiring of the fixture and the other end is to give support to the fixture in most cases.
Size:
The diameter of the LED lamp or circumference of the tube is depicted by its name, most common being T8 LED tubes, which simply means the circumference of the tube is 8-inches.
Lamp:
Retrofit LED tubes are designed to replace G5 and G13 fluorescent lamp bases. LED lamps are highly integrative and efficient.
Types of LED tubes:
LED tube lights are commonly referred to as UL Type A, Type B tubes. These are quite important specifications of these tubes which must be considered before installation of the fixture. The reason is simple, they might fail to function if the specification is not compatible with the preexisting fixture.
The three types of LED tubes are:
UL Type A:
UL Type A tube has integrated LED driver which is compatible with former ballast. They are compatible with all fluorescent ballast types and the LED tube is functional without much modification.
They are relatively easy to install and do not require the wiring to be switched or the ballast to be replaced. Although, it must be checked before purchasing if the LED tube is compatible with the existing ballast so it must be checked with the manufacturer. One downside of UL Type A fixture is its inefficiency and restricted access.
UL Type B
UL Type B or ballast bypass tubes has an internal driver which requires modification of ballast. The installation kit requires in-line fuse for better functionality and ease of installation. The installation is easy with electrical modification and voltage from main supply bypasses the ballast which removes any issues with functionality.
UL Type B is considerably more efficient than UL Type A as it reduce power loss from the fixture. It is though important the sockets must be shunted before installation to avoid any issues. This type of installation requires assistance from any experienced electrician as it is a critical task with potential hazards.
UL Type C
UL type C LED tubes have integrated remote driver which power rhe tube as opposed to other types which have an integrated driver.
The installation requires electrical modification but not to bypass the ballast through main’s voltage instead they are connected to the sockets. It is important that the sockets must be replaced before installation for better function or it will damage the new fixture.
The wires from the fixtures are connected to remote LED driver and driver’s output wires to the sockets. This gives them an important advantage to Type C LED tubes that they can power multiple tubes from the same driver.
UL Type C are the most compatible and efficient out of all the specifications and have controllable features. They are easy to install and are very cost-effective as they do not require frequent maintenance.
Conclusion:
LED tubes have better lumen output and are very energy efficient as they minimize power loss through the fixture. They have enhanced lighting features which covers quite crucial aspects of lighting like glare free uniform customizable light in a focused beam. With low maintenance cost and longer life duration these tubes cause little to no issues throughout their warranty period. They are easily integrable in a number of fixtures which previously used fluorescent tubes.
