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Ballasts

Using Ballasts is not at a disadvantage when it comes to power consumption.

A ballast is required for the operation of gas discharge lamps (NDL/MH). Connected in series with a lamp, a ballast with its current limitation ensures that neither the fuse flies out nor the lamps used are damaged or destroyed by uncontrolled discharge current. For example, a ballast ensures a longer lamp life and better energy efficiency.

There are basically two different types of ballasts:
  • Electronic ballasts (EVG)
  • Conventional ballasts


What device does Growland recommend?

It all depends on the lights. As already mentioned, the ballast is connected in series with the luminaires and must match the respective lamps, as it limits the current of the fluorescent lamps to their nominal value at a mains frequency of 50 or 60 Hz. In the case of lamps requiring an igniter (such as sodium vapour lamps and metal halide lamps), the ignition circuit is also connected in series with the lamp. In our range of ballasts you will find various suppliers that are suitable for fluorescent lamps from common manufacturers such as Philips and Osram. Also with some LEDs it is recommendable to interpose an ECG, in this case also called LED driver. Conventional ballasts cause a reactive current in the mains due to their inductance. We therefore recommend a blocking choke for 7 or more high-pressure sodium lamps. Thus the frequencies which are returned from the ballast to the mains flow back filtered and without unnecessarily attracting the attention of the electricity supplier.

Conventional ballasts

A conventional ballast (KVG) consists of a choke coil and a starter, which in many cases is also integrated in the fluorescent tube itself. Ballasts throttle the discharge current when the light is switched on in order to prevent the uncontrolled rise in the electrical voltage from destroying the lamp in operation or triggering the fuse. As with energy-saving lamps, a ballast can be integrated into the lamp or added to the luminaire as an additional element. Only in the case of the integrated version is it possible to connect the lamp directly to the mains supply.

low-loss ballasts

The next generation of ballasts is the low-loss ballast (VVG). As the name suggests, the energy loss here is lower than with the KVG and otherwise functions similarly. The CB is also connected between the control gear and the power source.

Electronic ballasts

Electronic ballasts (EBs) are used for the operation and switching of gas discharge and fluorescent lamps and, unlike conventional ballasts, do not require a starter. They operate the lamp at a higher frequency than the actual mains frequency and therefore have lower losses than conventional VGs with less material input. The latest generation of ECGs is also switchable and can therefore be used for dimmable. Electronic ballasts require a lower amperage and produce a higher output despite their lower power consumption, which results in a higher luminous intensity (lumen). Compared to magnetic ballasts, electronic ballasts also have a better light quality.
This is expressed above all in their freedom from flicker. The switchable devices can be adapted to the environment and provide better results during the flowering phase of the illuminated plants. A further advantage of this type of electronic ballast is that it can be controlled depending on daylight, making it particularly efficient and saving energy. Their quality and safety are also very high.
The devices are usually equipped with an automatic switch-off, which intervenes, for example, in the event of a short circuit, a faulty lamp or a missing lamp. In addition, the modern ballasts are electromagnetically shielded and have reduced noise emission.

Of course you will also find sodium vapour lamps and fluorescent lamps (e.g. from Osram and Philips) for which ballasts are needed. Please contact our customer service if you have any questions.
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